Dr. Oz's advice - When something is running that shouldn't be!

On Friday's Dr. Oz show he answered audience's embarrassing questions...I love these types of shows and the questions that get asked.  Hehe.  Well wouldn't you know, one of the questions was from a lady that runs regularly and was having a problem with runners diarrhea.  She'd start running and couldn't get further than 2 blocks before her tummy started churning.  (here is the link...starting at 4:49) Personally, I've only had this happen to me once or twice, but it did peak my interest.  Why does this happen??

Dr. Oz to the rescue.  Runners diarrhea occurs because your intestines are starved for oxygen as your body pushes it to other areas...such as your legs....during a run and is also thought to occur because your inner organs are being thrown around. This leads to the sudden urge to go to the washroom.  Upon further research, I came across this website that contained some sage advice for preventing this unpleasant side effect of running:

• At least one day before running, limit or avoid high-fiber and gas-producing foods, such as beans, bran, fruit and salad. If you run every day, experiment to find a tolerable level of fiber. Otherwise, simply eat those foods after you run.
• At least one day before running, limit or avoid sweeteners called sugar alcohols — most often found in sugar-free candies, gum and ice cream.
• For three to six hours before running, limit or avoid caffeine and high-fat foods.
• For at least two hours before running, don't eat anything at all. (this is Dr.Oz's advice as well)
• Before, during and after running, drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration can lead to diarrhea. Avoid warm liquids, however, which can speed food through the digestive tract.
• While running, use caution with energy gels and energy bars. In some people, these products can contribute to diarrhea.
• If you're lactose intolerant, switch to lactose-reduced or lactose-free milk and milk products

This however did lead me to another thought...does this pertain to the passing of gases that occurs while running as well?  I dug deeper and it seems that we runners tend to eat healthier (although this time of year that can be argued) and therefore consumer foods higher in natural gasses.  This, in turn, with the bouncing of our innards creates gas.

 

So please know that while it may be embarrassing, these things happen and are a part of every runners life.  Just let me know ahead of time so I can be sure to run in front of you.  Just kidding!!!!