Q I have diverticulosis. How should I exercise? I worry that vigorous exercise might be harmful.
A Regular aerobic exercise helps manage diverticulosis. Walking 30 minutes daily or light jogging increases colon motility and prevents constipation. Rest comes first during acute diverticulitis, while steady exercise is recommended during the symptom-free stable phase.
Detailed Answer
Exercise stimulates colon motility and helps prevent contents from stagnating. Moderate aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling is especially effective for preventing constipation and maintaining gut health. Strengthening core muscles (abdominals, pelvic floor) also aids bowel movements. However, during acute diverticulitis with fever and abdominal pain, you must rest sufficiently, and it is best to gradually increase light exercise starting from the recovery phase once symptoms subside.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, appropriate physical activity is seen to promote the circulation of qi (气) and activate colon function. Overwork or overly intense exercise can instead cause qi deficiency (气虚), so maintaining moderate-intensity exercise suited to your strength is important. We also advise on an exercise plan during treatment.
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