Does working out affect your diverticulitis?

How Exercise May Affect Diverticulitis

Exercise may play a role in preventing diverticulitis and also in reducing symptoms caused by the condition. This is because exercise:

* Helps to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a risk factor for diverticulitis, so maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk of developing the condition.

* Reduces inflammation. Exercise can help to reduce inflammation throughout your body, including in the colon. This can help to reduce the risk of diverticular pouches developing and becoming infected.

* Improves bowel movements. Exercise can help to improve bowel movements and reduce constipation, which can help to prevent diverticulitis.

* Improves overall health. Exercise can improve your overall health and well-being, which can make it easier for your body to fight off infection and recover from injury.

If you have diverticulitis, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. Your doctor can help you to create a safe and effective exercise plan that is right for you.

Here are some specific exercises that may be beneficial for people with diverticulitis:

* Walking. Walking is a great way to get started with exercise and is easy on your joints. Aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week.

* Swimming. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise that can help to improve your cardiovascular fitness and strengthen your muscles.

* Yoga. Yoga can help to improve flexibility and reduce stress, which can be beneficial for people with diverticulitis.

* Pilates. Pilates is a type of exercise that focuses on core strength and flexibility. Pilates can help to improve posture and reduce back pain, which can be helpful for people with diverticulitis.

Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercise sessions as you get stronger. If you have any pain during exercise, stop and talk to your doctor.