Our gut is made up of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. While you may think bacteria is bad, bacteria within the gut can be good. If bacteria is either too high or too low, we can experience constipation, bloating, gas, and other digestive problems. When bacteria growth is excessive in the gut, our body reacts, causing inflammation. Think of how regular exercise and movement helps improve blood flow and management of swelling in a joint, exercise and movement can help manage the amount of inflammation in our gut.
Exercise helps maintain a healthy level of gut microbes which helps maintain a state of balance in the body, or homeostasis. When gut bacteria diversity decreases, there are systemic consequences, such as gastrointestinal and psychological distress. Gut microbes are essential to many functions of GI system. Think about when you are nervous or excited. Where do you feel it? Most people will say their gut. Stress can lead to an excess of inflammation in our gut, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood. It improves self-esteem and cognitive function.
We all can likely say that in 2022 we’ve experienced added stress. The solution may be movement! I suggest starting small and adding 10-15 minutes of movement every day. This can be a walk in your neighborhood, light stretching, or anything that you enjoy. If you need help getting back into exercise or don’t know where to start, feel free to contact us! We can help if you are experiencing pain or any movement dysfunction.
You may be convinced that physical activity needs to be a top priority for yourself, but what if you are struggling with pain or limitations? A physical therapist can help you. We can assist in restoring your maximum functional ability .
Do you need help starting an exercise program to improve your overall health?
Contact us!
Magic City Physical Therapy
Hoover, AL
Phone (205) 602-1848
Fax (205) 293-3895
