Physical Inactivity Worsens Gastrointestinal Symptoms In Obese
In a study published today in the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, researchers from University of Washington in Seattle and the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis found that a high body mass index (BMI) and lack of physical activity were associated with an increase in GI symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
High BMI was associated with an increase in symptoms of IBS, abdominal pain and diarrhea and binge eating was associated with an increase in abdominal pain, constipation and bloating. Of those participating in the study, more than 13 percent had IBS and nearly 6 percent were binge eaters. On average, participants in this study were classified as obese, with an average BMI of 33. These findings have future implications for the treatment of both obesity and various GI disorders and symptoms that are more prevalent in this population.
“It is well-documented that maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity can benefit GI health,” said Rona L. Levy, PhD, lead study author and professor at the University of Washington in Seattle. “Our study is the first to show the benefit of maintaining these healthy habits and staving off the occurrence of GI symptoms in obese people.
“Potential reduction of GI symptoms is yet another reason for obese people to consider engaging in physical activity,” said Levy. “It could mean the difference between leading a normal life or leading one filled with constant discomfort.”
