A new study conducted by researchers of Ontario based McMaster University and the McMaster Children's Hospital has revealed that children who are suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are lesser fit as compared their peers.

Researchers found that the children who are suffering from the most common form of IBS have 25% lesser aerobic fitness level as compared to the other children of the same age group.

Brian Timmons, the principal investigator in the research, said, "Raising a child with a chronic condition is challenging, but we need to look at more than just 'fixing the child' and think about active living to reduce the risk of future health problems," and added "Fitness during childhood is an important predictor of adult health. Closer attention needs to be paid to the physical activity levels and participation habits of youth with IBD. This starts with the child's doctor".

He highlighted the need of active life especially for the IBD patients.

The researchers at Child Health & Exercise Medicine Program and the Centre for Child and Youth Digestive Health observed the levels of aerobic fitness and muscle power in the patients suffering from either of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease.

In Canada, for every 100,000 people, 18 to 70 people are suffering from IBD.