Regular exercise is healthy, but what if you can’t get off the couch because of pain? In addition to severe abdominal complaints, Crohn’s disease can also cause extreme fatigue. How can you exercise? Is that useful at a time like this? We’ve looked into it for you.
Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive system, most often the intestines. Depending on the location of the inflammation, the disease can cause unpleasant symptoms. You can read more about Crohn’s disease here.
Exercise with Crohn’s disease
One of the most common complaints with Crohn’s disease is extreme fatigue, even during times when the disease is calm. This may lead to a lack of desire and motivation to exercise. Understood! However, the right approach can ensure that you feel better in the long run and are less bothered by Crohn’s symptoms.
This concerns, among other things, a whole list of benefits of regular exercise: your physical fitness improves, your physical fitness improves. Happy hormones (such as endorphins and serotonin) while exercising, which makes you feel better mentally as well, your risk of cardiovascular disease decreases, and your immune system becomes stronger. More than enough reasons to exercise as much as possible, in the way that suits you!
This is how you can exercise with Crohn’s disease
With these tips, you can exercise if you have Crohn’s disease. Please note: These tips apply to a disease that is in remission, that is, in moments when the inflammation is under control. During flare-ups, your body is likely asking for rest, so it’s a good idea to give in.
Find something you like
This is the without thinkingBut find a form of exercise that suits you and that you enjoy. If you enjoy sports, you’re more likely to stick around and do them more often. The following applies: some movement is always better than no movement. You don’t have to run for miles or lift heavy weights right away. Walking slowly is better than sitting all day.
The right moment
Make sure your exercise time fits well into your day. If you don’t have the energy in the evening, schedule a workout in the morning when you feel better.
Be flexible
The disease can flare up suddenly, so it’s important not to be too strict with yourself. If you’ve planned to work out but can’t get off the couch due to exhaustion, so be it. Always listen to your body. Move your workout to the next day or do a quiet yoga class.
Find sports buddies
It has often been proven that we can maintain our exercise routine better if we do it together, because then you will have extra motivation. And it’s more fun too! Find a friend who you can meet at the gym or for a walk in the park. You may also find someone with similar complaints who understands them well if you have less energy sometimes.
If you have suffered from a serious illness, it may be wise to seek the guidance of a coach or physical therapist, someone who understands your complaints and can help you recover calmly.
source: Crohn’s and Colitis NL
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