It can really improve your digestion and regularity.
Photo: Eating Well/Getty Images When it comes to going number two, we all want things to flow smoothly. But if you’ve ever experienced irregular bowel movements, you know how disruptive it can be to your quality of life. Constipation, bloating and digestive discomfort can leave you feeling sluggish and unwell. The good news? There’s one simple daily habit you can adopt to support your digestive system and improve your bowel health, and that’s regular exercise .
Besides keeping your body strong and healthy, physical activity is essential for maintaining a well-functioning digestive system and supporting gut health. In this article, you’ll learn why regular exercise is one of the best habits you could do to poop better, get expert tips for incorporating movement into your daily routine, and discover other strategies for healthy bowel movements recommended by gastroenterologists. How Regular Exercise Can Help You Poop Better
May Improve Your Gut Motility
If your digestive system feels sluggish, getting your body moving might be the solution. One study showed that low-to-moderate aerobic exercise (think walking, swimming or cycling) improved gut motility after just 12 weeks of training.
“Exercise stimulates the natural contraction of intestinal muscles known as peristalsis,” says David Clarke, M.D. , a clinical assistant professor of gastroenterology at the Oregon Health & Science University. “This process is essential for moving food through the digestive system efficiently, preventing constipation and reducing bloating. Regular movement can decrease the time it takes for food to pass through the large intestine, limiting water absorption from the stool and making it easier to pass.” Can Help You Digest Protein Better
Protein is essential to a healthy diet, but some sources, such as red meat, can sometimes be difficult to digest. That’s where exercise comes in. According to Kenneth Brown, M.D ., a gastroenterologist, gentle activities like walking can help improve digestion by speeding up the breakdown and absorption of protein.
“Exercise like walking helps your body digest protein and amino acids better,” Brown explains. “Protein can often be difficult […]
The #1 Habit to Start to Poop Better, According to Gastroenterologists
