Effects of Exercise in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis

There is limited research on the effect of exercise on patients with Ulcerative Colitis. The aim of this investigation is to study the acute effects of moderate to high intensity exercise on gut function in patients with Ulcerative Colitis and to compare them with individuals of matched age who do not suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Patients in remission from disease activity and age and gender matched healthy control participants will be recruited from the general population. Participants will attend the laboratory on two occasions. The first visit will last approximately one hour and will include an exercise test to determine peak oxygen uptake capacity (VO2peak) which is an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness. The second visit will last for approximately four and a half hours and will consist of a 60 minute continuous cycle on a stationary cycle ergometer at an intensity of 65% VO2peak followed by a recovery period. Gastric emptying rate of a commercially available sports drink will be measured and blood samples will be collected at regular time-points throughout the visit and analysed for concentrations of inflammatory markers and intestinal integrity/function.