Tummy Trouble

[ANNETTE1234]

Hi

Bit of a strange question, is it normal to get an upset stomach from running.

[Woollyweaver Graduate10]

Not a strange question at all @ANNETTE1234 ! I think you'll find that many of us have been there at some stage.Try googling 'runner's tummy or runner's stomach' and you will find a host of articles about GI (gastro-intestinal) distress and running. Hopefully you will find some useful pointers there.

Good luck, you are not alone!

[ANNETTE1234 in reply to Woollyweaver]

thank you. I must admit it’s a bit alarming and happens every run

[Yesletsgo Ambassador Graduate10]

Sorry if the following is a bit graphic: an upset stomach can mean a multitude of things, but I learned the hard way that it's a REALLY good idea to do a poo before I go for a run.

For most runs I get up, drink lots of water, have one cup of coffee (any more and it, er, speeds up my 'digestion' too much) and maybe a glass of beetroot juice if I remember. I've managed to avoid further problems.

We're all different when it comes to what suits us. I normally don't eat before a run unless it's likely to last an hour or more, when I'll have a small bowl of porridge at least an hour beforehand.

Like Woollyweaver said, google will give you a lot of information and you can then tailor it to the issues you are experiencing.

[ANNETTE1234 in reply to Yesletsgo]

Thank you Yesletsgo. Sounds like it’s quite normal then 👍

[Kirst13 Graduate10]

I have problems with runners' trots and someone previously on here posted links to some helpful articles. Hopefully someone in here knows where to find them. I discussed it with my GP and he suggested cycling instead, which Im ignoring. It does make me a bit hesitant about organised races as I wouldn't be able to wait in a queue when it happens. Thanks for asking because it seems it is quite common, but not the easiest thing to ask about.

[ANNETTE1234 in reply to Kirst13]

Hi Kirst13, you’re right. I was trying to find a nice way to as without grossing everyone outv😅

[Vespina Graduate10]

Definitely had some issues, especially if it’s a run where I’m pushing the pace more. Think it comes with running generally but it’s getting better for me as I find what works and what doesn’t for my body. Experimenting with food and toilet breaks has helped me to understand what helps and things have improved.

[Sandie1961 Graduate10]

Definitely! I have a very similar regime to Yesletsgo which I have developed over the 4 years since I started running and it usually works! Have occasionally had to resort to a “country dump”, but thankfully never during a race 😂😂

[ANNETTE1234 in reply to Sandie1961]

Thanks Sandie I feel much better about it all now.

[Coddfish Graduate10]

A common cause is the adrenaline generated by running. There’s not a lot you can do other than the obvious.