It seems that the inclusion of an exercise program is recommended in the treatment for most ailments. Irritable bowel syndrome--or IBS--is no exception. Exercise may help to reduce common IBS causes such as stress and also help to alleviate symptoms such as constipation.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS is a condition that affects your colon. Common complaints associated with IBS are bloating, gas, change in bowel consistency from constipation to diarrhea, and stomach cramping or discomfort. IBS can be triggered by certain foods, stress, hormone levels, or stomach related illnesses. IBS does not inflict everyone the same. If you suffer from this condition, the foods that trigger your symptoms will not be the same as those that trigger another IBS sufferer's symptoms. What seems to be common, is the use of exercise as a treatment.
Exercise
A change in lifestyle is one of the first modifications if you are diagnosed with IBS. Exercise can aid in the movement of your bowels. The International Journal of Nursing Studies reported on study done in Korea in 2005. Subjects were found to have an increase in their IBS symptoms with fewer hours of exercise. Exercise can be added to your lifestyle in less than one hour a day to help alleviate your symptoms.
Constipation
The International Journal of Sports Medicine in 2008 reported on a study examining the effects of exercise on management of IBS symptoms. Subjects participated in a 12-week exercise program. The results showed improvement in constipation symptoms. These participants exercised for 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Diarrhea
For those who are severely overweight and suffering from IBS, exercise can help reduce diarrhea complications. The University of Washington in Seattle, Wash., in 2005, examined the relationship between diet and physical activity and IBS symptoms. Subjects reported less diarrhea symptoms associated with a higher physical activity level.
Stress
In times of increased stress, your IBS symptoms may increase. The contractions that aid in bowel movement, speed up when you are stressed. Exercise can reduce tension levels and provide an outlet for any aggravations you feel. Exercises such as yoga, tai-chi, and meditation may also help you lower your anxiety levels and help you focus on the positives in your life instead of on your symptoms.
References
- Pub Med: The Effects of Exercise upon Symptoms and Quality of Life in Patients Diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomised Controlled Trial
- Pub Med: Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Influence of Lifestyle Factors and Bowel Habits in Korean College Students
- Pub Med: The Association of Gastrointestinal Symptoms with Weight, Diet, and Exercise in Weight-Loss Program Participants
