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Int J Sports Med 2000; 21(1): 65-70
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-8858
Nutrition
Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ·New York

The Effect of a Sports Drink on Gastroesophageal Reflux During a Run-Bike-Run Test

 H. P. F. Peters1 ,  J. W. C. Wiersma1 ,  J. Koerselman1 ,  L. M. A. Akkermans2 ,  E. Bol1 ,  W. L. Mosterd1 ,  W. R. de Vries1
  • 1 Department of Medical Physiology and Sports Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
  • 2 Gastrointestinal Motility Unit, Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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The effects of different modes of prolonged exercise and different drinks on gastroesophageal reflux and reflux-related symptoms were examined. In a cross-over design seven male triathletes performed two tests at one week intervals (50 min periods of alternately running, cycling and running at 70 - 75 % V˙O2max), with supplementation of either a conventional sports drink (7 % carbohydrates) or tap water. Gastroesophageal reflux (percentage time and number of periods esophageal pH < 4) was measured with an ambulant pH system before, during and after exercise. Percentage reflux time (± SEM) during running, cycling, running and recovery was 24.0 ± 4.6, 8.2 ± 4.8, 17.6 ± 8.4 and 11.8 ± 4.0 with carbohydrates and 7.4 ± 2.9, 0 ± 0, 2.4 ± 1.4 and 0.2 ± 0.2 with water, respectively. Reflux lasted longer during exercise as compared to the rest situation (5.6 ± 1.4 %), especially with carbohydrates, and lasted longer with carbohydrates than with water (P < 0.05; Wilcoxon signed rank test). In general, reflux lasted longer during running than during cycling (P < 0.05). Data on the number of reflux periods are concordant to these results. Chest pain was reported by one subject during running with carbohydrates. Heartburn during running was reported by two subjects with water and by one with carbohydrates. In conclusion, physical exercise increases gastroesophageal reflux, dependent on the mode of exercise and beverage used.

Key words:

Strenuous exercise - carbohydrates - gastrointestinal symptoms

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Harry P. F. Peters

Department of Medical Physiology and Sports Medicine Utrecht University

P. O. Box 80043

NL-3508 TA Utrecht

The Netherlands

Phone: + 31 (30) 2538900

Fax: + 31 (30) 2539036

Email: h.p.f.peters@med.uu.nl