DiscoverThe GutFit Nutrition Podcast22: Are Marathons Linked to Colon Cancer Risk? What Runners Need to Know
22: Are Marathons Linked to Colon Cancer Risk? What Runners Need to Know

22: Are Marathons Linked to Colon Cancer Risk? What Runners Need to Know

Update: 2025-09-12
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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  • (04:20 ) — Study limitations: no control group, not peer-reviewed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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👩🏻‍💻 RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED: ⤵️

📌 Study referenced

📌 PMID: 26500336

📌 PMID: 35612669

📌 PMID: 29325535


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22: Are Marathons Linked to Colon Cancer Risk? What Runners Need to Know

22: Are Marathons Linked to Colon Cancer Risk? What Runners Need to Know

Leigh Merotto, Dietitian | IBS, Gut Health and Fitness Expert