Ulcerative colitis is a painful condition that can cause serious complications. Inflamed tissue and sores in the intestines and rectum characterize the illness suffered by more than 500,000 people in the United States. Exercise does not exacerbate ulcerative colitis, but may actually decrease symptoms and improve your overall health.
Healthy Exercise
People with ulcerative colitis may find that a certain level of exercise will help ease symptoms of the disease. Exercise also maintains a regular healthy lifestyle and reduces stress, a cause of colitis symptoms. While most exercise is healthy for those with ulcerative colitis, it is always necessary to consult your doctor before beginning any new workout routine or physical activity. Your doctor will want to monitor your physical health, hydration levels and weight.
Dehydration
Because frequent bowel movements and diarrhea are common with ulcerative colitis, it is important to drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise to prevent dehydration. Drink one or two glasses before your workout and one full glass every 20 minutes during your exercise routine. If you begin feeling thirsty, dizzy, lightheaded or tired, or develop a dry mouth, stop exercising and drink water.
Considerations
Exercise may induce bowel movements in people with ulcerative colitis due to its ability to increase intestinal function. If you worry that you may have diarrhea or gas while exercising in public, using a treadmill close to the restroom, or following a workout video at home may help. Diarrhea may also cause weight loss, so be careful to maintain a healthy weight, and if you need to maintain or gain weight, cut back on strenuous or vigorous activities that burn too many calories. Walking and other daily physical activities can improve your health without burning too much fat.
Stress-reducing Exercise
Reducing stress through exercise can be beneficial in easing pain and symptoms of colitis. Often symptoms are triggered due to stress. Learning to deal with the way your body responds to stress in combination with other types of treatments are often effective at fighting effects of the illness. Some exercises that are helpful include tai chi, yoga and deep breathing techniques.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ulcerative Colitis; Steven D. Ehrlich; December 2008
- MayoClinic.com; Ulcerative Colitis: Lifestyle and Home Remedies; Mayo Clinic staff; August 2009
- LivingWithUC.com: Ulcerative Colitis and Exercise
- MayoClinic.com; Dehydration: Symptoms; Mayo Clinic staff; January 2011
