One of the first thing that drops off of the radar when you start experiencing irritable bowel syndrome is often exercise. I mean, it’s risky, right?
The thought of going for a run, and needing to find a bathroom part way through is pretty daunting… Likewise the idea of having to leave in a rush during yoga class, or rush off the field during a game of rugby. Exercise becomes a lot harder when you suffer IBS, so we’ve put together some ideas that might make it easier… after all, your diet is just one part of a healthy lifestyle, and exercise is another.
So here are some tips to help you out:
- Try walking! Start with a short walk near your house, then extend out to a destination with a bathroom, so you always know where to go when nature calls.
- Other indoor activities are great, as there will always be a bathroom. We particularly enjoy rock climbing: if you need to go, you can just drop off the wall and wander over to the bathroom
- Generally avoid high impact exercise – ie anything that involves jiggling up and down, like running. It has a tendency to shake things up and make you need to go. Some good low impact options are cycling and swimming.
Aside from all the regular health and wellness benefits, exercise will help you think about something other than food all the time. Living FODMAP can really take over your life, so take some time out and have some fun – you’ll feel great!