People with Crohn's Disease may benefit from light exercise if their symptoms are mild or they are in remission, according to a new study from the University of Western Ontario. A study by Victor Ng evaluated 32 adults with Crohn's Disease for 3 months. All participants were either in remission or experiencing only mild symptoms. During the study, half of the participants walked for 30 minutes 3 days per week. The other half maintained their usual lifestyle. At the beginning and end of the study, everyone completed questionnaires about their symptoms, general well-being, and quality of life.

The findings of the study showed that participants who exercised reported improved symptoms and gave higher ratings for quality of life - compared to those in the "life as usual" or non-exercise group, who reported worsening of symptoms.

"Exercise benefits almost everyone and chronic disease patients are no exception," study co-author Dr. Wanda Millard told Reuters Health. However, Millard cautioned that this and other studies of exercise and Crohn's Disease have included only patients in remission or with mild symptoms."

If you would like more information, discuss the benefits of mild exercise with your gastroenterologist. As always, always check with your doctor beginning any exercise program.