Physical Exertion and Digestive System Disorders

Exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) is a syndrome of disorders of the digestive system resulting from intense physical exertion. The frequency and type of these symptoms vary among different athletes. Disorders of the upper digestive tract can manifest as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, chest and abdominal pain. Disorders of the lower digestive tract can manifest as bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and incomplete bowel movements. (E. P. de Oliveira, R. C. Burini, A. Jeukendrup 2014)

The causes of disturbances in the digestive system are not yet fully understood, but certain factors can contribute to their development, including: - dietary supplements - it is important to note that not all supplements contribute to the development and/or exacerbation of disturbances in the digestive system. However, it is worth noting that supplements such as creatine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, fructose-rich energy gels or products containing polyalcohols can have a negative impact on the function of the digestive system; - dehydration - people who are physically active are more prone to dehydration, which can contribute to the development of disturbances in the digestive system; - stress (psychological, physical and metabolic) - in athletes participating in competitions, stress is mainly related to the starts; - disorders of blood circulation in the area of the digestive tract; - mechanical damage to the intestines due to physical activity.. The most common cause is micro-damage caused by movement and muscle work.. Furthermore, changes in the large intestine can be observed in elite athletes; - individual factors such as gender, genetic predisposition; - the composition of qualitative nutrition; - training load (B.. Pfeiffer et al. 2012, Bi L. ; G. Triadafilopoulos 2003). It is important to note that physical activity can have both positive and negative effects on the function of the digestive system.. Low physical exertion can accelerate the process of gastric emptying.. Intensive physical activity can, on the other hand, work in the opposite direction, with the negative impact mainly affecting products with solid consistency.

At the outset, it is worth noting that gastrointestinal symptoms persisting for longer than 12 days require consultation with an expert who is able to establish a medical diagnosis and implement appropriate treatment. Remember that only a doctor can diagnose the disease, and trust in his knowledge and undergoing necessary diagnostics is of key importance. Consulting a specialist will also allow for the exclusion of serious conditions. Based on the obtained medical diagnosis, the doctor will be able to conduct appropriate medical measures aimed at eliminating gastrointestinal symptoms.

Continual engagement in physical activities of moderate and low intensity (e.g. running, cycling, or swimming) can provide numerous advantages in the context of proper digestive system functioning.. Prolonged physical activity lessens the risk of constipation (movement facilitates intestinal peristalsis and motility), as well as colon cancer.. Moreover, inflammatory bowel diseases occur significantly less often in physically active individuals.. Movement also prevents urinary retention and improves liver metabolism.

Engaging in intense exercise can have negative effects on the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal disorders. Individuals who participate in endurance sports are particularly prone to this type of discomfort, as these activities require prolonged physical exertion. Digestive disorders caused by intense physical exertion can affect both the upper and lower parts of the digestive tract. The most common causes of these issues include an improper diet, dehydration, the use of certain supplements, stress, and excessive physical activity. To effectively reduce the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, it is essential to consult a doctor who can make a medical diagnosis and provide appropriate recommendations. Regular exercise can also have positive effects on digestion, as regular movement promotes peristalsis and digestion, and reduces the risk of digestive disorders such as colon cancer.