Physical Activity

The general benefits of exercise fully apply to IBD patients. This includes:

• Improvements in health and psychological well-being
• Better quality of life
• Increases the rate of gastric emptying
• Reduces the risk of colorectal cancer

Exercise is well-tolerated in IBD patients that are in remission and there is no evidence that it causes disease exacerbation and relapse. However, patients with ostomies or external reservoirs may require additional guidance regarding exercise regimens that accommodate their mobility limitations and comfort level.

Again, similar to foods supplemented with probiotics, it should be emphasized that exercise does not replace the need for prescribed IBD treatments.

References