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Is constipation associated with decreased physical activity in normally active subjects?
Ashok K Tuteja1, Nicholas J Talley, Sandra K Joos
1V.A. Medical Center and University of Utah, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 19, 2005
Summary
Physical activity does not appear to reduce constipation risk in employed adults. However, increased physical activity is linked to better quality of life (QoL), suggesting benefits beyond symptom management.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- The role of physical activity in managing constipation is debated.
- This study investigates the link between physical activity, constipation, and quality of life (QoL) in working adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if physical activity levels influence the risk of developing constipation.
- To explore the relationship between physical activity, constipation, and QoL in employed individuals.
Main Methods:
- 1,069 employees (aged 24-77) from the Veterans Affairs (VA) Black Hills Health Care System participated.
- Validated questionnaires assessed bowel habits (Rome I criteria), QoL (SF-36), and physical activity (Baecke questionnaire).
Main Results:
- 19.4% of employees reported constipation.
- No significant differences in physical activity levels were found between those with and without constipation.
- Constipation was associated with lower QoL scores, while physical activity positively correlated with physical functioning and health perception.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity is not associated with constipation risk in employed adults.
- Higher physical activity correlates with improved QoL, independent of constipation status.
- Promoting physical activity may enhance overall well-being rather than directly alleviating constipation symptoms.