Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hey there,

You are not alone -- I am a long distance runner as well, and have had many issues with it since my IBS has been flaring (for the past two years almost). So I completely understand your frustration. I am IBS-D, so for me its the fact that running makes my bowels want to empty more (something I certainly don't need) along with the cramping pain. One question: when do you usually run? I am a morning runner, and since my IBS is worse in the morning I thought I would have to give it up. However, I have convinced myself that I'm going to overcome the morning IBS challenges since my run is not just for exercise, but definitely works as stress relief as well for me. The things that have been helping me with this are timing my meals, plus using a SFS (soluble fiber supplement). I use Heather's acacia, and make sure I take a dose of it before I go to bed. This seems to decrease my morning issues. Also, my GI just put me on an antidepressant drug about 3 weeks ago, and I think its just starting to kick in and help with both the pain and the frequency. Thirdly, I do the hypno tapes, and they have helped IMMENSELY. I'm only about a fourth of the way through the program, but with regards to stress they have really made an impact already. For example, I used to get IBS attacks during my morning run, which would ruin my morning and possibly the rest of my day. Since being on the hypno, however, I am able to talk myself out of an attack if I do feel like one might occur while I'm running...its been really really helpful. Anyway, what I mainly wanted to say is that I totally understand how you feel and I, too, refuse to give up an activity that is a big part of my life. There are many options out there, from supplements to fiber to prescribed medication, plus alternative therapies like hypno, acupunture, and yoga. It takes time to find what helps you (and trust me, I'm just starting to learn about that!), but everyone here on the boards is very helpful and sympathetic and their positive thinking and perserverance is a great motivation. I hope any of that helps, feel free to reply back if some of my babble didn't make too much sense

Julie
IBS-D, GERD, lactose intolerant

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"We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it."

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