Staying Active With a UCD
Living with a urea cycle disorder (UCD) doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying your life and doing the things you love if you learn how to manage it. When it comes to exercise and travel, here are some tips to help you stay active and on the go.
Take it easy when exercising
Whether jogging through the park or playing tag on the playground, intense physical exercise causes the body to use lots of energy. Your body uses stored protein to create this energy, and using too much of that stored protein can cause ammonia levels to rise to unsafe levels.
Amy, an adult patient living with a UCD, listens to her body and her doctor so she doesn't push herself too far when exercising. “I worked with my doctor and we came up with a light running program that doesn't cause my ammonia levels to go up,” she says.
School-aged children who can't join in gym activities or race around during recess can feel left out. One mother worked with her daughter's school and came up with an easy solution. “During those times when it's too hot to run around on the playground, she gets to pick a classmate who can play games with her indoors,” she explains. “The kids think it's cool to be picked to hang out with her.”
You can have fun with these low-intensity activities. Remember to always talk with your doctor before starting any activity.
- Swimming
- Volleyball
- Golf
- Table tennis
- Canoeing
- Bike riding
- Walking
- Bowling
- Yoga
Ammonia levels are different for every person living with a UCD. It’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any activity or exercise program.