- 期刊
Effects of Low- to Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Constipation Patients using Long-term Stool Laxatives
摘要
Objective: Constipation is a common problem in Taiwan. In addition to the need of regular laxatives for severe constipation, people with poor bowel habits experience psychological stress and an elevated risk of anal diseases (hemorrhoids or anal fistula). We aimed to evaluate the relationship between physical activity and constipation. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, participants performed low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise thrice per week for ＞ 30 minutes per session with a maximum heart rate ＞ 130 beats per minute according to the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines. Thirty-two participants were recruited, and the intensity of their exercise was measured using electronic portable devices. Of the 23 participants, 11 were excluded due to incomplete data. Results: No changes in body mass or body weight were observed after 12 weeks of exercise. The average daily step count was 7856.6 in week 1 and 8437.5 in week 12 (p = 0.169). Laxative use was significantly lower after week 12 of exercise (p＜0.001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise could reduce the frequency of laxative use. We observed a significant negative relationship between the average step count and the frequency of laxative use per week, suggesting that regular daily activity may relieve constipation.