Tums?

[The Moose]

Has anyone heard of any reasons not to have a Tums or two before a long run or race?

I've been having stomach issues in long or very fast runs, and tried two before heading out today (stomach already gurgling before I started.)
I didn't have any problems, but want a little reassurance before I go and try to set a PB at NCM with a few antacids in my stomach.




Mike

Right full of questions today, aren't I?

[Jane]

Right full of questions today, aren't I?

Must be part of the taper!!  Getting any phantom pains yet?   

I don't have any answer for you Mike.  Are you worried about them drug testing you if you beat the Kenyans?   

The only thing I saw on their website was that you should check with the Dr before you take them if you are taking prescription medicines.

[Sandy]

My question is always "why are you having nausea" and usually the answer is lack of electrolytes, fluid sits in your stomach and sloshes.  You could try electrolyte tablets instead.  The only things I have ever found in relation to antacids during long runs are as follows:

Aluminum hydroxide sodium carbonate (Rolaids) has been suggested as a
prophylaxis for acute mountain sickness (Penberthy, 1977). It is
incorporated into a four-point prevention program designed for Mt. Rainier
climbers which includes:
        1) adequate hydration,
        2) high carbohydrate intake while climbing,
        3) Rolaids to maintain urine pH at 5.5 to 6.5 (slightly acid), and
        4) regulating climbing pace to keep the heart rate
        (pulse) below two-thirds of maximum.
It is the opinion of this writer [Dr. Hackett] that such a program on
Mount Rainier is of obvious value in preventing acute mountain sickness,
even without the use of Rolaids. There has not, as of this writing,
been a controlled study on the use of Rolaids and although there are
no noted harmful side effects in the dosages recommended,
we do not recommend its use as mountain sickness prophylaxis."

and 

What should I do if I get GI cramps during a race? Preparing for heat exposure in advance is the foundation for preventing heat illness and cramping. Because GI cramps are most often a result of improper feeding or heat stress, make sure you adjust your consumption of fluids, electrolytes and carbohydrates. At the onset of cramping, try chewable antacids like Tums.

The common theme in both is stay hydrated and take electrolytes.  If you do these two things you shouldn't need Tums.  There are definitely no reposted negative side effects in regard to electrolyte supplementation.