If you find yourself tangled in the discomfort of diarrhea, rest and hydration are typically the prescription of choice. Although, to boost your spirits gentle exercise could bring upon unexpected relief during your troublesome situation.
Benefits of Exercise for Diarrhea:
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Improves Digestion: Performing light forms of exercise such as walking, yoga, or stretching can help stimulate your digestive system. This can help in moving waste through your intestines more efficiently.
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Improves Blood Circulation: Exercise increases the demand of blood flow throughout your body which can promote nutrient absorption and reduce the volume of waste.
Exercise Tips for Diarrhea:
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Choose Low-Impact Activities: Exercises that have gentle movements such as walking, yoga, or pilates are not jarring on your digestive tract like high-impact activities.
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Break Up Your Exercise: Consider breaking your activity into small bouts versus one long workout.
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Tune In With Your Body: If you've lost a lot of fluid and are feeling weak and lethargic, then listen to your body and rest. You can also be in tune with your body by knowing what time of day you experience the fewest symptoms and can consider exercising at that time if it's safe to do so.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your workouts. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so replenishing your lost fluids is crucial.
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Choose Your Drinks Wisely: Avoid caffeine within at least 3 hours of exercise because caffeine can stimulate your bowels. Choose electrolyte drinks wisely. Some types of electrolyte drinks can make your diarrhea worse due to the types of sugars used. Instead, consider leaning on water for activity and consuming electrolytes through whole foods.
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Comfortable Attire: Consider avoiding tight-fitting clothing that places pressure on your bowels. Instead, you could wear loose-fitting clothes or stretchy materials that provide more comfort.
Incorporating light exercise into your routine during a bout of diarrhea can have positive effects on digestion. However, it’s crucial to listen to your body and prioritize rest and hydration when necessary. Remember to always consult with your provider to discuss any health symptoms you're experiencing and before starting a new exercise regimen.