Athletes and Stomach Trouble

Athletes may be at a higher risk for a variety of stomach troubles, according to a new study conducted by researchers at the Oklahoma Foundation for Digestive Research.

Of the 319 athletes studied, more than 70 percent reported lower bowel symptoms (e.g., diarrhea) after exercising, and 43 percent experienced symptoms similar to heartburn.

Runners were most plagued by lower stomach problems, while weight lifters and cyclists were more often troubled by heartburn.

Researchers speculate these symptoms occur as a result of the normal shift in blood flow from the intestinal tract to meet the increased oxygen need of the muscles.

In most cases, these problems are not cause for concern and may be relieved with over-the-counter remedies.

Source: American College of Gastroenterology Meeting, Phoenix, Ariz., October 18, 1999

This appeared in ACE FitnessMatters, ACE's official magazine.
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