eHow Article: How to exercise with Celiac

This article was shared with me by a friend and I found it fascinating because I'm an avid exerciser. I definitely ignore instructions #3 and #4 with my love of water sports, running and tennis but I do believe that extra attention must be paid to the level of calcium that I'm taking in. Check it out and realize that this is extreme!! I have to assume that these issues would be most relevant to someone who went un-diagnosed for many many years or is elderly....
http://www.ehow.com/how_4494608_exercise-celiac-disease.html

How to Exercise With Celiac Disease

By Bailey Vincent Clark, eHow Contributor

Celiac disease is a disorder where the immune system is triggered after eating gluten, causing it to attack the lining of the stomach. This can lead to malnutrition, weight gain or weight loss, decrease in bone and muscle strength, an increased risk for osteoporosis, arthritis and muscle soreness. Exercise can help celiac patients greatly if patients are aware of the risks and precautions at all times, before starting a new routine.

Difficulty:

 

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     Start exercising with celiac disease by realizing the importance of physical fitness for anyone’s health. By consistently exercising 4 to 5 days per week (doing something you enjoy), you will help your body function and become stronger with celiac disease than if you skipped physical activity altogether.
   • 2
     Increase calcium in the diet. Many people with celiac disease have weakened bones from malnutrition and years of misdiagnoses. Even if your bones and body seem stronger, damage can still be done without your knowledge. So, start taking a gluten-free calcium supplement and eat a variety of vitamin rich foods like kale, spinach and dairy (or soy products if allergic).
   • 3
     Be aware of the dangers of high impact exercise on bone strength, if you're suffering from celiac disease. Consider minimizing exercises like running or high-impact aerobics and switch to gentle walking, Pilate’s or water activities. If forfeiting your running routine is just too hard to bear, than strongly consider visiting a chiropractor or physician on a regular basis for consistent evaluation of bone health.
   • 4
     Watch out for unexpected injuries or broken bones. Celiac disease patients are more likely to harm themselves because of weakened muscle and skeletal systems, so try skipping dangerous sports (like skiing or football) for gentler activities (like swimming). When in doubt, simply wear all of the appropriate protective gear needed if you're participating in any extremely physical activities.
   • 5
     Whether or not you are trying to lose, gain or maintain weight with physical fitness, listen to your body at all times. If you have recently been contaminated with gluten and are still recovering, then let your body rest with some gentle Yoga or stretching. If your bones are brittle and you feel that physical fitness is difficult, then simply try 15 minutes every day instead of pushing yourself too far.

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