Physical Exercise as a Therapeutic Approach in Gastrointestinal Diseases

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Physical exercise significantly impacts the gastrointestinal tract.
• Epidemiological evidence suggests exercise protects against colon cancer.
• Studies explore exercise's role in managing colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mechanisms of physical exercise on the gastrointestinal tract.
• To review exercise benefits for digestive system diseases.
• To compile training recommendations for gastrointestinal disease management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on physical exercise and gastrointestinal health.
• Analysis of epidemiological evidence and clinical trial data.
• Exploration of molecular biology and gastric receptor research.

Main Results:

• Exercise modulates gastrointestinal motility, permeability, immune responses, and microbiota.
• Moderate exercise improves quality of life in IBD and IBS, reduces colorectal cancer risk, and aids constipation.
• High-intensity exercise can worsen reflux and increase bleeding risk; resistance training effects are understudied.

Conclusions:

• Advances in molecular biology and gastric receptor research enhance understanding of exercise-induced gastrointestinal changes.
• Research spans various exercise intensities and includes both experimental and clinical studies.
• Tailored exercise strategies are crucial for optimizing gastrointestinal health outcomes.