Lots of cyclists they experience bloating and flatulence during and after their bike rides and workouts. Swollen belly, abdominal tension, excessive presence of gas in the stomach and intestines, spasms and gas emission from the rectum are all symptoms that accompany many people who dedicate themselves to cycling. More than what normally happens in daily life, or even exceptionally compared to the state of rest.
Cycling, meteorism and flatulence: because when you ride a bike air forms in your belly
But why Many people get air in their stomachs when they ride a bike? Excluding the causes linked to eating foods that can normally cause air in the belly – from beans to cabbage and broccoli to all those that require long digestion – let’s see what the specific causes of meteorism and flatulence in cycling are.
Aerophagia
Literally “eating the air”, which is always one of the main causes of meteorism and flatulence. In cycling even more so the habit, or need, of many cyclists to breathe with their mouths open in moments of maximum effort. In this case the remedy is to learn to breathe well under stress.
Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Syndrome
According to a study carried out by Monash University and the University of Tasmania (Australia) published on Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics endurance physical exercise practiced at a strenuous level negatively impacts gastrointestinal function causing the so-called Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Syndrome both at the upper (stomach) and lower (abdomen) level.
Riding posture
More than other sports, cycling imposes a posture that favors the onset of gastrointestinal problems. In fact, the riding position, in particular the aerodynamic one with a low grip, generates pressure on the abdomen, disturbing the digestive processes and as a consequence also forcing you to ingest swallowing air (see the point on aerophagia).
Diet
When it comes to meteorism and flatulence nutrition always has something to do with it: from eating quickly (the typical snack that is chewed while cycling) to some foods with excessive sugar intake which can also ferment due to the reduced blood supply due to physical effort, even what and how we eat can cause air in the belly.
Chewing Gum
Yes, the chewing gum that many cyclists ruminate while pedaling they cause ingestion of air and production of gastric juices which as a consequence can cause an increase in gas in the belly.
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