BY For every endurance athlete, the thought of GI distress during a race is a nightmare. It is one of the most common reasons athletes do not hit their personal bests, yet it is a challenge many continue to face—rushing into a Portaloo mid-race is hardly the scenario anyone imagines when visualizing the perfect performance on race day after months of diligent training. From food toxins to stress and lack of sleep, numerous factors in daily life can damage gut health, slowing digestion and hindering nutrient absorption.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect the gut and mitigate the risks of digestive distress. AG1, which contains both prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health is one effective approach many athletes – age-groupers and elite alike - are turning to. Prebiotics, such as inulin, apple powder, and beta-glucans, act as ‘microbiome fertilizers’ to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping balance the microbiome. Probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum further strengthen the gut by supporting a healthy gut lining, promoting digestion, and maintaining regular bowel movements.
A balanced, healthy gut does not just improve digestion—it is the central hub of the body and can boost immune function, mood, and even skin health. The gut's communication with the brain, skin, and immune system through complex axes influences overall well-being, making gut health essential for athletes aiming to perform at their best. With a gut that’s nourished and balanced, athletes can experience smoother digestion, better nutrient absorption, and improved mental and physical resilience during their races.
We had a chance to speak with ultra-marathoner Natalie Dau, who made history recently by completing the epic PROJECT 1000 challenge—running 1,040km from Thailand to Singapore, averaging two marathons a day for 12 days. This incredible feat, which set global records, is now featured in the Guinness Book of Records. In the interview, Natalie has been using AG1 daily for the past 12 months and shared how AG1 played a crucial role in her training and racing, helping her maintain optimal gut health and energy levels throughout the grueling challenge.
RUNSG: As an experienced endurance athlete, we are sure you have experienced your fair share of GI distress – talk us through your experiences and how you currently manage this during training and racing?
ND: Racing ultras, especially, often leads to extreme gut distress. Putting my body through such intense physical strain over long periods, vomiting almost becomes expected. I’ve also experienced GI issues in shorter races, often due to hot weather, poor food choices the night before, or stress. Managing this has always been a challenge, but I have learned that there are things we can do in everyday life to help prepare for race day. AG1 has been a game changer for me and my whole family takes it first thing in the morning, as it is most effective when absorbed on an empty stomach.
RUNSG: What do you find are the best benefits of using AG1?
ND: For me, the major benefits of AG1 are clear. It helps prevent bloating, keeps my energy levels consistent throughout the day (so I do not experience that afternoon slump), and I feel confident knowing I am getting in 75 essential vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and probiotics.
RUNSG: Please provide your top FIVE tips for managing GI distress come race day?
ND: Here are my top 5 tips for managing GI distress on race day:
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate—not just on race day, but in the days leading up to it.
- Avoid vegetables and high-fiber foods—trust me, you want to be running to the finish line, not to the toilet.
- Do not try anything new on race day. I stick to something simple like oats and a banana in the morning, and make sure any planned race nutrition is already hard tested during training.
- Have a toilet strategy—give yourself plenty of time to line up for the port-a-loos before the race starts.
- Pre-work – ensuring your gut is already in great shape before the race begins by taking AG1!
As the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2024 approaches, do not miss the chance to visit the AG1 booth at the Expo and race day finish line. Stop by to grab product samples, exciting giveaways, and chat with the team about how AG1 can help boost your gut health and athletic performance. Whether you are gearing up for the race or just looking to optimize your well-being, AG1 has something to support you on your journey.
See you there—your path to better health and peak performance starts now!
More on Natalie and AG1 : https://www.instagram.com/p/DBcLacgsGHC/
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