I touched on this a couple weeks ago but it bears mentioning again because its the one thing that can stop you in your tracks no matter how fit you are or aren't!
Thousands of runners and other athletes experience GI problems as they train and compete. Running seems to be the worst culprit and distance doesn't always play a part- nerves before competition can get the best of any distance of runner. For some runners, the first time they hit a long distance in a season, it can set off turmoil down there. Cramps, bloating, diarrhea, all common complaints.
Two books not targeting runners or athletes but very appropriate for shedding some light on problems, and for providing some flavorful healthy recipes that will fuel you for the distance follow:
Clean by Alejandro Junger, M.D. goes through reasons, symptoms and the how to go through eliminating potential allergens. You can go full out and do the real cleanse for the three weeks recommended or just step closer to it with the elimination diet that reduces or eliminates the potential problems in your GI track.
The Healthiest Meals on Earth by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S. suggests meals to eat and why to eat them. Their balanced, whole food, no processed foods in sight and they combine nutrients in a way you don't have to think about it because he has already. Flavorful menus are at your fingertips and if you don't like his version, he suggests alternatives both to making the recipe easier (though they aren't too complicated or you wouldn't be getting it here) and making the meal work for you.
No matter how you train, if stomach problems are a high potential for you, race day could be spoiled. Too many other things are unpredictable- try to eliminate this one from being a problem for you in any way you can. Nerves, are another matter.
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