Already registered? 

Click here for My Action Plan.

Exercise can do more than help you to maintain a healthy weight and stay flexible, strong and fit for life. It also can help you to minimize and control your IBS symptoms.

There's actually a direct physical connection between exercise and your digestive system. The physical movements of exercise help to stimulate normal contractions in your intestines.

	Mind-body benefits Here are other reasons why regular exercise can be so rewarding for people with IBS: First, it helps to release both physical and emotional tension, which in turn eases stress -- a common IBS trigger. Second, it helps your social life, since some exercise requires a buddy or is simply more fun to do in a group. People with IBS can sometimes feel isolated by their condition, so going to the gym, pool or track gives you an opportunity to enlarge your support network. Third, it helps to build confidence. The more you focus on your body's strength and fitness, the less you'll think of your body only in terms of IBS or the physical challenges that living with IBS brings.

Exercise doesn't necessarily require a lot of time, expensive clothing or equipment or even athletic skill. If you want to start exercising but are concerned you're "out of shape," ask your doctor for advice on putting together a sensible workout plan.

Empowering, energizing exercise

Start slowly, and be willing to experiment to find exercise activities that suit your personality, lifestyle and IBS symptom management needs.

You'll be more likely to not only stick with exercise - but also look forward to it - if you choose activities that are comfortable and enjoyable for you. Here are some forms of exercise that promote relaxation and a strong mind-body connection.

Pilates: A body conditioning method that emphasizes muscle control and strength, especially in the body's center core. The goal of Pilates is to bring the body and mind closer together to create physical balance and grace.

Qigong: A traditional Chinese health system that combines Eastern philosophy with relaxation techniques.

Swimming: Can build cardiovascular strength and muscle tone without putting excess stress on the joints or bones, which are supported by the water. The movements of swimming can be relaxing and stress-relieving.

Tai chi: A "softer" martial art from China that uses slow, flowing movements to draw attention to the importance of balance. The practice of Tai chi encourages an "opening" of the breath and circulation to achieve a relaxed, meditative state.

Walking: A rhythmic, whole-body exercise that can have calming as well as rejuvenating effects. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and walking rather than driving to destinations, are easy ways to incorporate more physical movement into every day.

Yoga: An Indian practice that unites breathing, physical postures and meditation, with the goal of creating harmony and balance. There are many different types of yoga. To learn yoga, you can take a class, read a book or watch a video.

Eating a healthy diet is the other side of the healthy living with IBS equation. Learn how getting more fiber could help to keep symptoms in check, and read about stress management techniques, medications and alternative approaches that also may be worthwhile for you.

www.citrucel.com

Home   |   Sitemap   |   Privacy Statement   |   About GSK   |   Contact Us   |   Copyright   |   Disclaimer