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Physical activity to ease gastrointestinal discomfort in obese people

by Medindia Content Team on Oct 3 2005 1:28 PM

The innumerable benefits of exercising and healthy eating habits have been known for a long time. There is now yet another reason for those of who have been working towards reducing your weight. Physical activity may help ease symptoms related to the gastrointestinal tract such as irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhoea and constipation, according to a new study.

The above findings are consistent with the previously established findings that a high body mass index (BMI) and lack of physical activity is associated with an increase in GI symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

Obesity is a chronic disease that has become a major health problem in the United States and around the world. In fact, obesity has emerged as the most important nutrition problem in the United States.

The study was conducted among a group of American people who were classified as being obese, with an average BMI of 33. Study participation was based on eligibility factors, such as age, gender, smoking status, amount of physical activity, BMI and binge eating status. Of those participating in the study, it was found that more than 13 percent had IBS and nearly 6 percent were binge eaters.

The study is the first to show the benefit of maintaining these healthy habits and staving off the occurrence of GI symptoms in obese people. Adopting a diet rich with fruits and vegetables and increasing physical activity are two simple ways to control weight and lead a healthier lifestyle.

These findings could have valuable future implications for the treatment of both obesity and various GI disorders and symptoms that are more prevalent in this population, according to the researchers.


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