I have a digestive disease that leaves me very fatigued and I find it hard to exercise sometimes. I eat a high protein, zero starch/sugar/gluten diet (except for fruits and vegetables). Normally I try yoga but on “bad days” I find it hard to even get out of bed. Any exercise suggestions for “bad days”? I’m not overweight, I just want to be strong. It’s really pathetic that I can’t even go more then 5 minutes on any activity. Please help this wimpy sack of bones!!

Thank you,
Andrea [via Ask Questions]

I am not a doctor and I do not know your medical history, but I do know that if you have a medical condition you have to get exercise clearance from your doctor. In some cases, exercise can actually worsen your condition.

Having said that, it seems that you follow a healthy diet and yoga should not put too much stress on your body. I’m reluctant to recommend a specific exercise program for the “bad days� because I do not know specifics about your medical condition. And I do not know if your doctor gave you a permission to exercise.

On the days when you feel so bad that you cannot even get out of bed, something is going on with your body. Exercise puts stress on your body. Since you already not feeling well, putting even more stress on your body can make you feel worse.

So, the only thing that I can recommend is walking. Walking is a great exercise all around. Walk normally for 5-to-10 minutes; if you feel good, increase intensity by walking a little faster, in 5-to-10 minutes assess how you feel again.

Remember, though, talk to your doctor before you start exercising on the bad days.