Exploring the gut-exercise link: A systematic review of gastrointestinal disorders in physical activity

Table 11 Summarizes the recommended exercises for specific gastrointestinal diseases

Condition	Recommended exercises	Benefits	Precautions
GERD	Moderate-intensity aerobic (e.g., walking, cycling); yoga and Tai Chi	Reduce intra-abdominal pressure; improve digestion and weight management; reduce stress	Avoid high-impact activities; avoid bending/lying flat post-meal; exercise on an empty stomach
Peptic ulcers	Moderate-intensity aerobic (e.g., walking, swimming); yoga	Promote circulation and healing; reduce stress; support weight management	Avoid high-intensity or abdominal-straining exercises; avoid exercise immediately post-meal
GI cancer	Aerobic (e.g., walking, cycling); resistance training; stretching and relaxation	Reduce recurrence risk; support immune function; improve mental health and reduce fatigue	Tailor programs to treatment stage; gradually increase intensity post-treatment
Gallbladder disease	Aerobic (e.g., walking, cycling); low-intensity resistance training	Improve bile flow; reduce abdominal fat; enhance recovery post-surgery	Avoid high-intensity exercise during inflammation; gradually resume activity post-surgery
IBS	Aerobic (e.g., swimming, walking); yoga and Tai Chi; strength training	Improve gut motility; reduce stress and abdominal pain; balances gut microbiota	Avoid overexertion or dehydration; tailor exercises to individual symptoms
IBD	Aerobic (e.g., walking, cycling); yoga and Tai Chi; weight-bearing exercises	Reduce inflammation; enhance gut barrier function; alleviate fatigue	Avoid high-intensity activities during flare-ups; maintain hydration and consult a healthcare provider
Diverticular disease	Aerobic (e.g., walking, jogging); low-impact exercises; yoga	Improve gut motility; reduce inflammation and constipation; promote recovery post-diverticulitis	Avoid high-intensity or abdominal-straining exercises during active disease
GI bleeding	Gentle aerobic (e.g., walking, yoga); low-impact stretching	Improve circulation and recovery; support gut microbiota health; reduce systemic inflammation	Avoid high-intensity activities; consult a provider before initiating exercises post-bleeding
Constipation	Aerobic (e.g., walking, swimming); yoga; core strengthening	Enhance gut motility; promote regular bowel movements; reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort	Ensure adequate hydration; start with moderate-intensity exercises
Celiac disease	Aerobic (e.g., walking, cycling, and swimming); yoga and Pilates; strength training	Reduce inflammation; promote gut motility; improve nutrient absorption post-gluten exposure	Avoid high-intensity exercise during active inflammation; ensure proper hydration and nutrition to support recovery

GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease; GI: Gastrointestinal; IBS: Irritable bowel syndrome; IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease.