15. Physical Activity: The Often Overlooked Component
Exercise and physical activity play an unexpected role in esophagitis management. The type, duration, and intensity of your activities can either help or harm your condition. For example, high-intensity workouts that involve a lot of jumping or running can jostle the stomach, potentially leading to acid reflux and subsequent esophagitis.
Lower-intensity exercises like walking or swimming are generally less problematic. They provide the benefits of exercise without adding undue pressure on the LES. Interestingly, certain yoga poses designed to improve digestion have shown promise in alleviating symptoms, although the research is still inconclusive.
The timing of exercise also matters. Working out too soon after eating can disrupt digestion and spur on acid reflux. Conversely, exercise on an empty stomach or at least three hours after a meal is generally safer and less likely to provoke esophagitis symptoms. (15)
