Do marathons cause colon cancer? There have been several posts circulating online alongside a New York Times article about a recent study about colon cancer in long distance runners. Let’s break down the study & what you need to know about distance running and colon cancer risk!

⏱️ Chapters:

• (00:00) — Grab the Gut-Friendly Sports Drink Guide!
• (00:38) — Welcome to the Gut Fit Nutrition Podcast
• (01:27) — Today’s topic: Colon cancer study in long-distance runners

• (03:00) — Study overview & sensational media headlines
• (04:20) — Study limitations: no control group, not peer-reviewed

• (06:00) — Possible mechanisms: blood flow, oxygen, runner’s colitis
• (07:20) — Missing variables: hydration, NSAIDs, nutrition, body composition
• (08:20) — Ultra-endurance considerations and lifestyle factors
• (09:00) — Broader evidence: physical activity reduces colon cancer risk
• (10:20) — Known risk factors: diet, lifestyle, genetics, IBD
• (11:30) — Emerging theory: microplastics and colorectal cancer
• (12:50) — Practical takeaways: study quality, balanced perspective
• (14:10) — Closing thoughts

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