Originally published October 11 2005
Researchers believe exercise can help relieve GI symptoms in obese people
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Researchers from the University of Washington and the University of Minnesota produced evidence that lack of physical activity and a high body mass index were related to increased likelihood of GI symptoms such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Over the last 20 years, obesity has emerged as the most important nutrition problem in the United States.
Researchers from the University of Washington in Seattle and the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis found that obese people who incorporated some form of physical activity into their routine suffered less from GI symptoms than others who were inactive.
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.
"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.
Data collected from 1,801 men and women enrolled in a 24-month randomized trial evaluating telephone- and mail-based interventions for weight loss was used in this study.
Participants were members of a Managed Care Organization and were randomized to one of three groups: a mail-based weight intervention using prepared lessons that gave nutrition and physical activity tips; a telephone-based weight intervention with a trained counselor that also used prepared lessons; or a usual care group who did not receive specific weight loss instructions, but were allowed access to telephone and clinic-based weight loss counseling at modest cost.
The average body weight of Americans has increased by approximately 10 percent during the last 20 years, with more than half the adult population being overweight and nearly one in every three adults diagnosed as obese.
Adopting a diet rich with fruits and vegetables and increasing physical activity are two simple ways to control weight and lead a healthier lifestyle.
"Potential reduction of GI symptoms is yet another reason for obese people to consider engaging in physical activity," said Levy.
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