New runner - feeling sick?

shiseido_faerie · October 2013

I just started a learn to run program, last night was the start of week two, so we were walking one minute, running one minute.
I was expecting to really struggle with only having 1 minute walks as last week I really needed our 2 minute walk to recover, but, I surprised myself, it was much better than anticipated. However, the last i'd say 3 (out of 10) runs, I started feeling a little sick to my stomach, I slowed down thinking it's probably an indication that i'm pushing my body a little too far out of its couch potato comfort zone, but it was too late, by the end I felt quite sick, yet hungry lol. I went home, had supper without issue but the feeling remained. My uncle who is a runner suggested I probably started out too quickly (even though I felt like a sloth) and it was a build up of lactic acid? I'm wondering if maybe I was a little dehydrated, or if the nature valley bar I ate an hour before was too much? I'm still feeling slightly yucky today, but not like last night. Just wondering if any more experienced runners have gone through this and have any thoughts/advice? Thanks

abbylbrown23 · October 2013

I actually have had the same problem with starting to exercise. I started on the elliptical and would get nausea so bad. I went to the doctor and he said it was probably acid reflux. With my body going up and down the acid was getting trapped and making me ill to my stomach. After a couple weeks it slowly started going away.

I am also starting a running program (c10k) and am noticing it now coming back but I am thinking its due to the change of movement.

If it persists I would probably go see the doctor just to make sure everything is ok. My doctor recommended to me to take 2 tums before the gym and then 2 more later in the day for about a month and slowly stop taking them. Try taking an antacid medicine before working out, tums work for me.

Good luck hopefully I could help!

Confuzzled4ever · October 2013

I'[m a new runner too. Been at it for 2-3 weeks and did my first 5k last weekend.

What I have discovered is I cant' eat or drink a lot of water for at least an hour prior to running or I feel sick. I also need to eat something within an hour after running or I feel sick. Usually a banana or granola bar works great after a run. I also wait at least 15 minutes before drinking water after running. If I drink too much too fast i feel sick. I can't run on a completely empty stomach either. So I can't run before breakfast. I usually go before or after dinner.

I think it's pretty common to feel a little ill when running. Esp if you are dehydrated. Everyone tells me to drink water before running, but the one time I tried it I did vomit. I did drink a swallow during the 5K and that was a terrible idea. It was sloshing around in my tummy and made the last mile very difficult.

shiseido_faerie · October 2013

It did feel kind of acid reflux-y, not that heart burn feeling but that feeling you get at the back of your throat so maybe you're on to something there!

CarsonRuns · October 2013

Some people can run with something in their stomach, some people can't. I suggest you try different variations of eating at different intervals before you start the workout or eating nothing at all (if you get up and work out first thing in the morning).

As the repeats were very short, it's unlikely that you had any lactic acid build up. Even the body's of newer runners should be capable of clearing lactic acid for that period of time.

Best of luck to you! Keep up the good work. And remember, right now the most important thing is to get time on your feet. Slow down and take it easy. Speed will come later with time.

jsj024519 · October 2013

Listen to Carson.

abbylbrown23 · October 2013

It did feel kind of acid reflux-y, not that heart burn feeling but that feeling you get at the back of your throat so maybe you're on to something there!

Only way I could describe how it feels with me is right under my chest between my ribs is nausea, and a lot of burping when at the gym! But I have also had issues with acid reflux in the past.

Just_Jon · October 2013

There's lots things that cause stomach issues for us runners (some already mentioned above). You may need to try several things to precisely isolate what troubles you.

First, keep track of what you eat and when you eat, before your run. Some things digest better than others. For me, I can eat yogurt and light carbs (bread etc) before a run, but heavy things like meat (hamburger!) won't do it. I get upset stomach, cramps, and then want to puke.

Check you hydration! For me, low water can be a big cause for that. Also, check your sodium levels. If you are in a warm climate and you are sweating a lot, low sodium can cause you problems.

How is your sugar? Some people have a serious drop in sugar due to other more serious issues (diabetes!). Make sure you are eating well and there are no other underlying physical problems. How's your heart? Some heart related symptoms do not start with chest pains.

Lastly, talk to your Physician before beginning any exercise program. If you have not had a physical in a while, get one! You don't want to start off aggravating a serious problem that you didn't know about.

Good luck!

Disclaimer:
I am not a physician and any posting made by me here or elsewhere on the internet is strictly my own personal opinion and should never be interpreted as actual medical advice. Seek professional medical attention for all health related questions. Running is an inherently dangerous sport and runners assume personal risk during participation. Do not step forward of the yellow line while bus is in motion. Close cover before striking.

shiseido_faerie · October 2013

Thanks everyone, I really appreciate all of the information!

New runner - feeling sick?

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