While running, i get 3 miles in and have to have a bowel movement.i have tried going before but doesn't help. what can i do? i have been running about a year and this has been a problem since adding more distance. i have tried going before i run but often

This : This is a common complaint of distance runners. The mechanism is not entirely clear but I have suggested to my patients to use Imodium (loperamide) or another antidiarrheal in a prophylactic manner. I have had great success with this. It usually only takes one or two 15-30 minutes before a run and you will be much more comfortable. I would also suggest staying away from sugar or high electrolyte drinks prior to the run as they can also stimulate bowel movements.

Nutrition: Irritable bowel from running is often due to a nutritional problem. Look at caffeine and fat intake. When in doubt, visit a sports nutritionist that can help you. If its happening all the time, not just when running, time to visit a GI specialist.