Hydration and the Impact on Runners Gut

With fall marathon season just around the corner, a common issue for endurance athletes is the urgency to find a bathroom, colloquially known as runner’s "trots" or runner’s gut. It can spell disaster for an otherwise excellent training session. Whether it manifests as a grumbling sensation, abdominal pain, or bloating, or necessitates regular bathroom stops, runner’s gut is more than just physically uncomfortable. It's disruptive in training, fosters anxiety, and can ultimately hurt your performance when it matters most.

Who is Susceptible to Runner’s Gut?

• Runners are more prone to gut discomfort during exercise compared to other athletes.
• Individuals prone to nervous anxiety.
• Elite athletes face higher risks than recreational athletes.
• Younger athletes.

Underlying Factors of Runner’s Gut and How Hydration Can Help
There are several factors commonly linked to gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort during running. It is vital to consult with a sports dietitian for a comprehensive management plan tailored to your specific needs.

1. Dehydration: A Primary Concern

One of the foremost causes of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other GI problems during exercise is dehydration. Starting your exercise routine well-hydrated not only helps to keep GI issues at bay but also enhances your overall performance. Proper hydration can effectively reduce the risk of encountering these troublesome symptoms. Therefore, always ensure you're hydrated before, during, and after your runs to maintain optimal gastrointestinal health. Remember, drinking water may not be enough so be mindful of your complete electrolyte intake.

2. The Pitfalls of Highly Concentrated Carbohydrate Drinks
While they might give you an immediate energy boost, fluids with high carbohydrate concentration can exacerbate GI issues by drawing extra water into the gut. On the flip side, staying adequately hydrated with balanced electrolytes can help you avoid these problems. 

3. The Impact of Reduced Blood Flow to the Gut
Blood flow to the gut, or lack thereof, is a significant factor causing nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea during exercise. Exercise draws blood away from the gut to fuel your working muscles, like those in your legs. Staying well-hydrated can alleviate some of these symptoms by ensuring a more effective distribution of blood flow, helping to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.

4. Timing and Type of Pre-Exercise Meals
We have all been there: eating too close to the start of your marathon can lead to undigested food in your stomach causing discomfort. Aim to finish eating at least 2-4 hours before you start running. Hydration plays a role here too; sipping water during this period can aid digestion and prepare your body for the physical exertion to come.

5. The Role of Diet and Medical Conditions
Certain foods and pre-existing conditions like Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, and IBS can contribute to runner's gut. Drinking water and staying hydrated with electrolytes free of artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners can help manage these symptoms but should not replace medical treatment. Consult a gut health specialist for a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

In summary, hydration plays a critical role in managing runner's gut and should be an integral part of your exercise regimen. It's not just about quenching your thirst; it's about enhancing your performance and, most importantly, ensuring your gastrointestinal comfort. So, the next time you gear up for a run, make sure you're as hydrated as you can be to keep runner's gut at bay.