Are Certain Exercises For Gut Health Better Than Others?

Exercise can impose a positive effect on the immune system as long as you do not stress out the body. A well-paced exercise routine appropriate for one's body can improve the body's defense mechanisms.

However, prolonged periods of intense exercise can produce inflammatory cytokines. However, gradually building up intensity and workout time can be achieved at a consistent pace. One needs to be aware of what exercises their body can handle to produce the best results.

Regular exercise is shown to regulated the immune system and possibly illnesses relate to age. This is primarily for those who engage in regular and appropriate exercise routines that do not overstress their body.

"The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) houses a majority of our immune cells, and exercise can modulate their gene expression, favoring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant profiles."

• Exercise helps with gut motility. It keeps food moving through the digestive tract. 
• It also helps with nutrient absorption: When better food is better digested and broken down, the body can better utilize the vitamins and minerals from the food.
• Additionally, the gut lining is strengthened through regular physical activity.

These things all aid digestive issues that many people have and that are associated with many different health conditions.

Research shows that exercise helps balance the gut microbiome. This microbiome consists of organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. The harmful bacteria and helpful bacteria must be in check for a balanced gut ecosystem.

Another positive effect of exercise is the reduction of anxiety and stress. Firstly, exercise lowers cortisol and adrenal hormones that trigger stress. Secondly, chemicals are released in the brain that lower stress.

Lower stress levels and anxiety create favorable health conditions. Additionally, stress triggers increased inflammation in the gut, especially when health conditions persist.

Healthy exercise levels as well as appropriate exercises set the body up to better handle stress and anxiety for a healthy gut.

Walking tends to be a popular exercise that many people can incorporate into their day. Studies show different ways walking benefits the gut.

This study indicates that walking at a faster speed resulted in a more diverse gut microbiome. This means there are more types of organisms in the gut to balance out gut health which is better for your health. Low-diversity intestinal bacteria are related to a variety of gut illnesses and issues.

Also, the same study showed that walking on a more level surface or on an incline proved more beneficial to the gut than walking on a decline. 

Another study shows similar benefits of walking at a quick pace. This study done on brisk walking resulted in healthier bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract as well. This indicates that walking at a fast pace is beneficial. Your walking speed can be gradually increased by walking regularly.

Ellipticals increase blood flow and mobility in the digestive tract. Also, these are a great option for people who need low-impact on their lower body.

They can be adjusted for a more intense workout, and some can be set to target specific areas of the body.

If you suffer from gastrointestinal issues, Tai Chi may be a form of exercise you want to consider. It is a gentle form of martial arts exercise involving slow and controlled moves in a flow-like pattern.

These movements help with constipation and digestion in the gut. It also reduces gut inflammation while increasing healthy gut flora. These effects are due to the stress- reducing movements and the use of systematic breathing.

Tai Chi has been used in Chinese medicine for many years and now has gained popularity among other populations. It is a highly beneficial activity for most people to engage in.

Here is a video that you can rent from a reliable Tai Chi teacher if you are interested in trying it out. You may be able to find it on YouTube as well.

Abdominal Exercises

Related Post:  Exercises To Do Everyday

Deciphering between what type of aerobic exercise is best for you is important. While some can handle a high-intesity workout, it can have a negative reaction for some with autoimmune issues. Exercise intensity is best increased gradually. 

Moderate exercise and low-intensity exercise have been shown to help with gut permeability, blood flow, and gut inflammation, and produce a favorable bacterial environment in the gut.

Aerobic exercise can be done at all levels with positive results. However, studies show that high-intensity aerobic workouts are best when they are controlled. Moderating your aerobic exercise is best for anyone with gut problems.