How Does Runner's Trots Occur?
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What is It?
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It's estimated that between 20 to 50 percent of long distance runners have experienced diarrhea on the run, or the runner's trots. In actuality, the symptoms range from cramping, nausea and flatulence, to diarrhea and the compulsory need to defecate either during or after strenuous exercise. On the bright side, running is good for maintaining a regular bowel, and runners enjoy a decreased incidence of colon cancer. Still, the condition is less than desirable and, though it might not be totally eliminated, the frequency and severity of runner's trots can reduced with understanding how it occurs.
How Does it Occur?
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Running, especially the long distances associated with cross country and marathons, is a vigorous activity that puts a tremendous deal of strain on the body. Just as respiration will increase to put more oxygen in the blood, the blood itself will tend to be diverted to the muscles and away from nonessential areas such as the digestive system. It's believed blood flow to the GI tract can sink by as much as 80 percent during long distance runs. This deprivation can irritate the lining of the gut, producing symptoms of the trots. Dehydration and depletion of blood sugar over time only exacerbate the condition. It's also speculated that the constant up and down movement of running stirs the bowels, and with reduced bowel control caused by the decreased blood flow, gravity takes hold, occasionally resulting in unintended defecation.
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Prevention
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The level of exertion directly contributes to the onset and severity of runner's trots, but especially in a competitive situation, it might not be possible or desirable to limit physical activity. Thus, runners look to other methods to prevent an unwelcome occurrence. On the top of the list is staying hydrated, which among its many benefits, helps foods digest properly and limits flatulence. They also avoid dehydrating liquids such as alcohol, coffee, and other caffeinated beverages, as well as Vitamin C, ibuprofen, fructose, and other content known to cause gas or diarrhea. Eating a meal of low fiber carbohydrates and no dairy at least two hours before a run, and moving the bowels prior to starting, are also proven methods to reduce the likelihood of runner's trots. In some cases, the use of antacids or anti diarrheal medications can help, though it's not recommend these be used on a regular basis.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Ronald (GFDL 1.2)
