19: Why Does Running Cause Gut Issues (And What Can You Do About It?)
Picture this: You’re halfway through your long run when suddenly… you need a bathroom ASAP… Sound familiar?
Today we’re talking about why running can trigger digestive issues and what’s really going on in the gut. This episode is for: runners, endurance athletes with IBS or a sensitive gut, or anyone curious about the gut–exercise connection!
⏱️ Chapters:
(00:00) — Intro
- (01:23) — Today's Episode: Why Does Running Cause Gut Issues (And What Can You Do About It?)
- (02:25) — Support the Constantine 5K Run For CAMH Foundation
- (03:52) — What Causes Digestive Symptoms During Runs?
- (04:58) — What Happens to Blood Flow During Exercise
- (05:37) — The Role of Pelvic Floor and Mechanical Jostling
- (06:29) — Cortisol, Inflammation, and Gut Permeability
- (7:47) — Pre-Run Nutrition Mistakes
- (9:48) — What You Can Do About It
- (10:17) — Timing Pre-Run Meals & Snacks
- (11:39) — Hydration Strategies
- (12:14) — Electrolyte Solutions & Sodium Type
- (14:11) — Fueling During Long Runs
- (15:11) — Planning Your Running Route
- (15:47) — Pelvic Floor & Strength Training
- (16:45) — Supporting Gut Health & Bowel Routine
- (20:20) — Closing Notes
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🤝 SUPPORT THE CAMH FOUNDATION FOR THE CONSTANTINE YORKVILLE 5K: ⤵️
https://raceroster.com/events/2025/96738/2025-constantine-yorkville-run/pledge/participant/38848322
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👩🏻💻 RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED: ⤵️
📌 Electrolytes & Gut Health: What’s Hype, What’s Helpful, and What’s Right For You?
📌 Creating a Therapeutic Exercise Plan With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction With Courtenay Polock
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✉️ CONNECT WITH ME: ⤵️
🖥️ Shop the Resource Suite
If the GutFit Nutrition Podcast is giving you value - helped your digestion and fitness, made you rethink how you approach your gut health, please consider leaving a review! 🎧
If you have questions for my listener Q & A episodes, you can submit them here, or send me an email at leigh@leighmerotto.com. See you soon!
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