Exercises For People Dealing With IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine, or colon. Symptoms of IBS can include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and tension, which can trigger IBS symptoms. It can also help to improve gut motility and reduce inflammation. There are several exercises that can be helpful if you suffer from IBS. According to Healthline, yoga promotes relaxation and mindfulness, which can help to ease stress and tension. There are many different yoga poses that can help to stretch and massage the abdomen, helping to relieve pain and promote regularity. These include downward-facing dog, cobra, bow pose, and wind-relieving pose.

According to Everyday Health, walking can also be very helpful when it comes to treating IBS symptoms. Walking helps to stimulate the movement of the bowels, which can help to reduce constipation. It also helps to reduce stress and tension, which can trigger IBS symptoms. Walking is a great way to get some exercise without putting too much strain on the body. It's also a great way to stay healthy and improve your cardiovascular fitness if you can't do other types of exercise.

Other exercises that can help with IBS

According to Gutivate, swimming is another excellent exercise for people with IBS. The water helps to support the body and takes the pressure off of the joints and muscles. Swimming can also help to improve gut motility and reduce inflammation. It's a great way to get some exercise without putting too much strain on the body. Pilates can also be helpful. Pilates helps to improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. It can also help to reduce stress and tension. There are many different types of pilates exercises that can be beneficial for people with IBS.

Tai chi is another form of exercise that can be great for people with IBS. Tai chi is a gentle form of martial arts that involves slow, flowing movements. It's a great way to reduce stress and tension, and it can also help to improve gut motility. Many forms of exercise, including weightlifting, cycling, and others, can be beneficial for people with IBS in some way. If you're concerned about which exercises you should or shouldn't perform, speak with your doctor.

What to know about IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation (via Mayo Clinic). IBS can be a chronic condition, meaning it can last for months or even years. There is no cure for IBS, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms. There are several possible causes of IBS, including sensitivity to certain foods, stress or anxiety, hormonal changes, and a problem with the nerves in the digestive system. Symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person. Some people may only have occasional mild symptoms, while others may have chronic, severe symptoms.

Treatment for IBS generally focuses on relieving symptoms (via Johns Hopkins Medicine). This may include changes in diet, such as avoiding trigger foods and eating more fiber. Stress management techniques, such as relaxation therapy or counseling, may also be helpful. Medications can be used to treat specific symptoms, such as diarrhea or constipation. If you think you might have IBS, talk to your doctor. He or she can help determine if you have the condition and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.