Endurance Eats 35: The Science of Gut Issues in Endurance Sports
This conversation delves into the common gastrointestinal (GI) issues faced by endurance athletes, exploring the various factors that contribute to these problems, including individual variability, environmental conditions, psychological stress, and nutritional strategies. Patrick Wilson shares insights from his research, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's body and the need for tailored nutrition plans to mitigate GI distress during training and competition. The discussion also highlights the role of sodium and hydration, common mistakes athletes make, and when to seek medical advice for persistent symptoms.
00:00 Understanding GI Issues in Endurance Athletes
02:47 Individual Factors Influencing GI Problems
05:24 The Role of Environmental Conditions
08:03 Psychological Impact on GI Distress
11:08 Nutritional Considerations for GI Health
16:47 Strategies for Managing GI Issues During Races
26:44 Understanding Nausea in Endurance Sports
29:16 The Role of Experience in Gut Health
30:26 Cycling vs. Running: Gut Issues Explored
32:02 Timing of Gastrointestinal Symptoms
34:22 Sodium and Electrolyte Trends in Endurance
36:13 The Science Behind Sodium Supplementation
38:08 Bloating and Digestive Distress in Athletes
42:13 When to Seek Professional Help
43:19 Golden Rules for Endurance Nutrition
45:18 Future of Endurance Nutrition Research
Guest Bio:
Patrick Wilson, Ph.D., R.D. is a registered dietitian and an assistant professor of exercise science at Old Dominion University whose research zeroes in on the gut challenges that endurance athletes often face. Blending expertise in nutrition, physiology, and psychology, Patrick has become a leading voice on how exercise and fueling strategies influence digestive health, performance, and comfort.
He is the author of The Athlete’s Gut: The Inside Science of Digestion, Nutrition, and Stomach Distress — a science-based guide that helps runners, cyclists, triathletes, and coaches understand, prevent, and manage gastrointestinal issues during training and competition. Through his research and book, Patrick translates complex science into practical tools for athletes striving to feel and perform their best.
When he’s not teaching or writing, Patrick continues to study the mind-body-gut connection in sports, aiming to improve both health and race-day outcomes for endurance athletes.
Find Patrick Wilson online:
Research & faculty page: Old Dominion University
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Connect with Me:
Instagram: @alexlarsonnutrition
Website: alexlarsonnutrition.com
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