Avoiding Constipation

It's a well-known fact that exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. So, it isn't surprising that regular exercise is a very effective way of helping our digestive system to stay healthy too. 

Exercise is important during all stages of one’s life - from childhood, into adulthood and throughout later life. We've prepared some information about exercises that can help encourage a healthy digestive system.

Children
Problems with digestion are not limited to adults: children need to learn the importance of digestive health too. Although many children get lots of exercise through active play, a growing number of children just don't have enough regular exercise. Television, computer games and other popular indoor activities mean that today's kids spend much less time exercising than previous generations. 

We recommend that parents and child-carers should encourage children to be physically active. The opportunities are limitless: from simple childhood games like hide-and-seek, to popular activities like bike-riding, skate-boarding or swimming, to organised team sports at the local school or sports club. Set a good example by playing sports with your children too. Inspire them to develop an interest in sports at an early age - having sports as a hobby may help them stay fit for life. 

Medical advice should be sought from your doctor before any laxative is given to a child.

Adults
You should try to ensure that regular exercise is part of your lifestyle.

There are many reasons why we don't exercise enough. Many people find that they are just too busy to take the time to exercise. Some individuals find conventional exercise is just plain boring, and some may be intimidated by the expectations of competitive sports.

The benefits of exercise, however, can be enormous, especially for those who suffer from constipation. The secret to a successful exercise plan is simple: it should be something you enjoy doing, and something you can do regularly. It can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the lift every day, or as involved as joining your local fitness centre. Exercise that especially strengthens the abdominal muscles can be particularly helpful in increasing digestive health. These include:

• aerobics
• gymnastics
• tai chi and other gentle martial arts
• swimming

While it is important to ensure that exercise is an important part of your life, a new review has shown that there is no evidence to suggest that increased exercise has any benefit among younger people who are severely constipated.¹ If you are severely constipated and decide to take up an exercise programme you should consult your healthcare professional first, especially if your symptoms of constipation persist.

Seniors
After retirement, many people find it much more difficult to remain active and to do regular exercise. However, regular exercise improves circulation, firms muscles, moves joints and helps you to remain flexible and supple. 

If you are caring for a senior person, you may wish to remind them of the enormous benefits of exercise - especially for individuals who suffer from constipation. 

Walking and swimming are forms of exercise that are well-suited to many seniors. Many community centres also offer exercise classes specifically geared toward older individuals. Remember to consult your health care professional before starting a new exercise programme.

Find out More :
		Keeping your digestive system healthy
		Regular Exercise
		Healthy food for a healthy digestion

1. Müller-Lissner SA, Kamm MA, Scarpignato C, Wald A. Myths and Misconceptions About Chronic Constipation. American Journal of Gastroenterology 2005; www.amjgastro.com