Feel Your Best in 2023: 5 Exercises for Better Digestive Health
May 9, 2024
After the New Year, many of us seek to become the healthiest version of ourselves. Whether that means amping up our gym routine, eating more vegetables, or other forms of self-improvement, the first months of the year are the best time to make a change. If you’re looking to improve your digestive health or you’re suffering from chronic digestive problems, there are some exercises you can add to your routine in 2023.
These movements vary in difficulty and intensity, so you’re sure to find something that’s not only beneficial for your gut but is also enjoyable. Keep on reading to learn the top exercises for optimal digestive well-being from the team at Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute.
Why Is Exercise Good for Digestion?
Our digestive system comprises various organs, like the colon, intestines, stomach, and many more. Your diet, sleeping habits, and exercise routine are the three most vital factors contributing to your digestive health, and today we’re going to take a look at the importance of exercise.
Some benefits of exercise for digestion include:
- Increased blood circulation
- Activated bowel movements & digestive enzymes
- Stimulated nerves in the nervous, muscular, and endocrine systems
If you’re wondering how to exercise for a healthier digestive system—look no further! We’re covering all you need to know about gut-healthy movement.
Top 5 Exercises for Healthy Digestive System
1. Walking
While it may seem simple, brisk walking can significantly impact your digestive fitness. During your walk, your digestive system is stimulated by movement. This mobility causes your stomach and intestines to contract, pushing food and waste throughout the system more efficiently. Walking just a few blocks daily, you can experience less bloating and gas and more consistent bowel movements. We recommend you begin walking 20-30 minutes a few times a week and up your mileage once you feel comfortable.
2. Yoga
Yoga is an excellent exercise choice for those who want better digestive health in 2023. Yoga is proven to reduce stress, which can positively impact your digestive system. Additionally, certain yoga poses, like downward dog, boat, child’s pose, upward dog, and triangle, can help you reach your goal of optimal digestion. Over time, these exercises can relax your muscles while strengthening your core and enhancing your gut health. Heal your mind, body, and soul with yoga this year.
3. Biking
If you’re a cardio fanatic, you’ll be thrilled to know that biking is great for the gut.The quick movement of biking quickly encourages the movement of food and stimulates your digestive system. Biking can also lessen the water lost in your stool, which can help with constipation. On top of these benefits, biking can reduce belly fat, the type of fat most likely to contribute to health problems. You’re more likely to encounter digestive problems like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) if you're overweight. If you’d like to learn more about the connection between your weight and digestive health, we recommend you speak with your doctor.
4. Situps & Crunches
Abdominal exercises can strengthen your core muscles and contribute to a more efficient digestive system. At Alabama Colon & Rectal, we recommend situps and crunches, but any activity stimulating your abdominal muscles will do the trick. You can begin with 8-10 repetitions of the exercise a few times per week and increase the frequency over time. The optimal time for these abdominal exercises is on an empty stomach. But, if that doesn’t fit into your schedule, one to two hours after you eat a meal is the next best option.
5. Pelvic Floor Activation
Your pelvic floor muscles support your pelvis and include the bladder and bowel. If you’re female, your vagina and uterus also play a role in supporting your pelvis. You can improve urinary incontinence and bowel movements by strengthening your pelvic floor.
To activate your pelvic floor, focus on squeezing the muscles in your pelvis upwards while relaxing your legs and buttocks. Begin with a few repetitions three times per day. Once you feel stronger, you can cut back on the amount of repetitions per day. We recommend you speak with your doctor about pelvic floor activation for your digestive health.
Become the Healthiest Version of Yourself in 2023
Whether you suffer from digestive issues or want to keep your body in tip-top shape, these exercises from The Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute can help. From biking to yoga to crunches, there are various opportunities to improve your digestive well-being in 2023.
The team at Alabama Colon & Rectal can help if you're still facing digestive and colon issues. While it can seem uncomfortable or embarrassing to discuss your colon health, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Our team is ready to help you get back to living your life to the fullest!
Your Trusted Colon Health Experts in Birmingham, AL
Are you suffering from poor digestive health? For over 30 years, our team has provided solutions for colon, anal, and rectal ailments. Alabama Colon & Rectal experts utilize modern technology and techniques for comfortable, stress-free treatment. Call us at 205-850-1830 or contact us online today!