Benefit of Exercise with Celiac Disease

Keep your weight under control

It's not uncommon for patients with celiac disease to suffer from weight variations, either losing weight due to malabsorption or gaining weight due to a diet rich in processed foods. In either case, regular exercise can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Improve bone health

Osteoporosis and other bone conditions are an unfortunate but common consequence of celiac disease. Again, forcing the bones to work against the force of gravity seems the most effective type of exercise, while swimming and cycling typically described as non-weight bearing exercises are less effective for improving bone mass.

Reduce the risk of depression

Engaging in exercise helps improve self-esteem and reduces the risk of depression. This is a consequence of endorphins released by the brain, which trigger positive feelings and reduce pain. For celiac disease patients, at a higher risk of developing depression and other mood disorders, regular exercise can help reduce stress and decrease anxiety.

Sleep better

Most people who exercise are familiar with the benefits it provides to sleep patterns. Along with the mental benefits from a break for exercise comes a reduction in stress hormones and nervous energy. Less stress and tension means that you can more easily fall asleep and stay asleep longer, so that you will feel refreshed and feel better.

Improve blood circulation

Besides the well-known impact in bones and muscles, in the long term, exercise can also improve your blood circulation. This includes better circulation reaching the digestive tract, which will significantly contribute to a faster healing process.

Get stronger muscles

One type of sport in particular - weight training is ideal to get stronger muscles. As both bones and muscles respond to exercise, this activity also strengthens bones, which make have become weakened by celiac disease. Muscle mass decreases with age and also can be lost due to the malnutrition associated with long-term exposure to gluten in the diet before diagnosis. The best type of exercises include weight-bearing activities that force you to go against gravity, such as lifting weights or climbing stairs.

Achieve a balanced lifestyle

A balanced lifestyle is important for everybody, but particularly so for patients that must deal with a condition such as celiac disease. Exercise can be a crucial aspect to maintain this balance, including a way to reach an optimal weight and reduce the risk of developing secondary conditions, and promote healing of the gut.