Running and IBS

[Hidingteacher]

Running people, talk to me about the misery of IBS. Google suggests that it can’t just be me.

Basically, if I run more than 4 or 5 miles or if I run 5K really fast and really push myself, I spend the rest of the day with one of the following delights: a) the shits b) vast amounts of mucus in my poo or c) blood in poo (sometimes d) all the above).

It is absolutely miserable and puts me out of action for the rest of the day. I get stomach cramps or at least a bit of an ache with it too.

I’ve seen a doctor before anyone tells me to go and they’re not very interested. I’ve tried all the IBS meds that they can prescribe and they seem to make matters worse. I control my daily symptoms with a restricted diet because certain foods set it off and a lot of probiotics, but I’m still never quite right on that department and running makes it severe.

Does anyone else suffer to this extent? I feel like such a freak for not being able to run without this happening. I’ve had to stop all runs over a few miles completely because it got so bad and every time I try to beat my 5K time I suffer all day.

[AwfulSomething]

I cut out carbs years ago which worked for me, I didn't suffer as badly as you but the change was dramatic.

[Hidingteacher]

Thank you, that is helpful. I might give that a go and see what transpires.

[hopll]

Commenting only because I have the same issue and also looking for a solution! I get a really dodgy stomach feeling while running and often have to stop