Effect of Running on Gastroesophageal Reflux and Reflux Mechanisms

Reflux symptoms are common among athletes and can have a negative impact on athletic performance. At present, the mechanisms underlying excess reflux during exercise are still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exercise on reflux severity and examine the underlying reflux mechanisms. Healthy sporty volunteers were studied using both high-resolution manometry and pH-impedance monitoring. After a meal and a rest period, subjects ran on a treadmill for 30 min at 60% of maximum heart rate, followed by a short rest period and another 20-min period of running at 85% of maximum heart rate. Ten healthy volunteers were included. Exercise led to a significantly higher percentage of time with an esophageal pH