Running is a popular sport for the general public, with minimal requirements for exercise venue, time, and equipment. However, some runners may experience vomiting during their runs. So why does this happen?
Running immediately after a meal
If you run immediately after a meal, you may experience symptoms of vomiting. This is because after a meal, the stomach is filled with food, and the vibrations caused by running can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Recommendation: It is best not to run immediately after a meal. Instead, take a leisurely walk or stroll. It is generally more appropriate to engage in exercise 30 minutes to an hour after a meal. If you are participating in formal training or intense sports competitions, it is best to wait an hour and a half after a meal before engaging in physical activity.
Running too vigorously
Running is a physical activity that involves movement of all the organs in the body. The stomach and intestines occupy a large part of the abdominal area, and their physiological structure allows for significant movement. Therefore, running too vigorously or for too long can cause food reflux in the stomach and intestines, leading to vomiting.
Recommendation: The intensity of outdoor running should vary depending on the individual. It is best for individuals who are not regularly active, elderly, or have poor physical condition to avoid engaging in long-distance running or other intense activities.
Cold weather
When running in cold weather, breathing through the mouth can allow cold air to enter the stomach directly, causing significant stimulation to the intestines and stomach. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause spasms and lead to the regurgitation of stomach acid, resulting in nausea and vomiting.
Recommendation: The correct breathing technique is to breathe through the nose. If you feel that you are not getting enough air, you can press your tongue against the roof of your mouth to soften the airflow. This can help prevent vomiting during running.
Low blood sugar
If you experience vomiting during a morning run and have not eaten breakfast, it may be due to low blood sugar. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include sweating, hunger, palpitations, tremors, pale complexion, dizziness, nausea, lack of concentration, and abnormal behavior.
Recommendation: When engaging in morning running exercises, it is best to eat a banana or drink a cup of honey water to replenish energy. Individuals with a history of low blood sugar should not exercise on an empty stomach and should carry sugar cubes, chocolates, or other sweet snacks to supplement glucose during low blood sugar episodes.
High blood pressure
Vomiting during running may also be caused by high blood pressure. Patients with high blood pressure may experience a rapid increase in blood pressure after tension, fatigue, or morning exercise, leading to severe headaches, vomiting, dizziness, and other symptoms.
Recommendation: Patients with high blood pressure should pay attention to controlling their blood pressure on a daily basis and try to avoid engaging in intense physical activities. It is best to have a family member accompany them during exercise to prevent any sudden emergencies.
