Can patients with gastritis exercise?
In general, patients with gastritis can engage in appropriate physical exercise, but should pay attention to the type and intensity of the activity. The details are as follows:
Appropriate exercise offers certain benefits for patients with gastritis. Physical activity can promote gastrointestinal motility, aid digestion and absorption, and help relieve bloating and discomfort in the stomach. For example, gentle exercises such as walking, yoga, and tai chi can help relax the body, regulate mental and physical well-being, and enhance the body's immune system. Additionally, exercise improves blood circulation, delivering more nutrients and oxygen to the stomach, which supports the repair and recovery of gastric tissues. However, gastritis patients should keep several points in mind when exercising. They should avoid exercising immediately after meals, as this may increase the burden on the stomach and cause discomfort such as stomach pain or nausea. It is generally recommended to wait 1–2 hours after eating before engaging in physical activity. Exercise intensity should also be controlled to prevent overexertion and strenuous activities. Vigorous exercise may lead to physical fatigue and rapid breathing, reducing blood flow to the stomach and worsening gastritis symptoms. Moreover, it is important to stay hydrated during exercise, avoiding dehydration caused by excessive sweating, which could impair normal stomach function.
Gastritis patients should also pay special attention to their diet, avoiding spicy, irritating, raw, or cold foods. Meals should be taken regularly, at consistent times and in moderate amounts, to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.