(NC)-Keeping physically active is a great boost for your body, your brain and, yes, if you have Crohn's disease, even your bowels.
For people with Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory illness of the gastro-intestinal tract, getting proper exercise can present a host of challenges. The symptoms, which include diarrhea, abdominal pain and weight loss, can make an exercise plan seem like an ambitious undertaking.
But for patients who are stable, finding the right type of exercise is worth the effort, says Dr. Brian Bressler, a leading gastroenterologist who practices in Vancouver.
"Not only is exercise safe for Crohn's patients, it can be quite beneficial," he says. "It helps reduce stress and improves your sense of well-being."
A low-intensity walking program has been shown to improve overall quality of life in Crohn's patients without increasing symptoms.
The newest biologic treatments allow many patients to function almost normally and, because the treatments can be self-administered anywhere, patients can pursue the sport or fitness activity of their choice.
"We have professional hockey players with Crohn's," Dr. Bressler notes.
Weight-bearing exercises, like walking or aerobics, help build bone density. This is particularly important because Crohn's disease is associated with a higher incidence of osteoporosis, a disease of low bone mass. These exercises also help maintain muscle tone, which is important because people with Crohn's disease often also have ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis, both of which involve joint inflammation and stiffness.
A few exercise tips for Crohn's patients:
• Avoid solid foods for three hours before aerobic exercise
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Plan exercise activities so that they are near a bathroom, if you are experiencing diarrhea or other bowel symptoms
Remember to always talk to your doctor about which exercises are right for you. Visit www.ccfc.ca for more information about living with Crohn's disease.
- News Canada