View our Christmas and New Year service hours
“The test actually flagged that I am intolerant to lactose and gluten, which explained why I had been experiencing bloating”
Before embarking on his marathon journey, Morgan faced unexpected challenges that impacted both his physical training and mental well-being. After struggling with digestive discomfort and anxiety, he sought answers through the MyHealthChecked Intolerances & Sensitivities DNA Test. Discover how identifying his intolerances transformed his training experience, improved his energy levels, and set him on a path to running success as he prepares for two major races this year. Here's Morgan's story:
“From a young age, I've always been into sports, and particularly enjoyed football, athletics, and training at the gym. However, when the Covid pandemic hit in 2020, it became much harder to participate in these activities, as sports facilities including gyms closed. Like many people, I started running, but found that I couldn't really get into it, and following the pandemic, I began experiencing anxiety.
“Fast forward to a couple of years ago, I tried getting into running again - I completed my first 10k, and got the bug for it! However, as much as I now love running, I had been suffering with bloating and discomfort, which I found started to affect my training. Not only was this uncomfortable, but it also didn't help the feelings of anxiety I had been experiencing. I tried dieting and cutting out various foods, like processed food, but I was still randomly getting symptoms. In the end, I resorted to avoiding food altogether before running.
“This year, I have signed up for a half marathon in autumn, and the Valencia marathon in December. I was worried that my symptoms may affect my performance when I want to be on top of my game, particularly for the Valencia marathon, which I am really looking forward to.
“Seeking solutions for my symptoms, I decided to take the MyHealthChecked Intolerances and Sensitivities DNA Test, which was super easy to do. The test actually flagged that I am intolerant to lactose and gluten, which explained why I had been experiencing bloating.
“Since getting that result, I have been cutting out lactose and gluten, and have noticed a significant difference as I prepare for the marathon - I can now eat before training, and overall feel a lot more energetic, with improved digestion and much less discomfort.
“Interestingly, the test also flagged that I am slightly sensitive to caffeine. The results showed that although caffeine moves through my system quickly, if I have multiple coffees in one day, I am likely to experience anxiety. Around a year ago, I did attempt a bit of a caffeine detox to try and relieve my anxiety, but I am now more strict with my caffeine consumption, and stick to one coffee a day.
“This, along with reducing my uncomfortable digestive symptoms, has helped my anxiety, and I find that I am far less worried about bloating or feeling discomfort when I am running - I am no longer hindered when training, and my symptoms are pretty much gone.
“Although cutting out lactose and gluten has been a little tricky, and sometimes expensive, while preparing for the marathon, it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make… for now at least!”
Morgan's journey is a powerful example of how understanding your body's unique needs can make a significant difference in both performance and well-being. By identifying his intolerances, he was able to take control of his health, enhance his training, and reduce anxiety. If you're experiencing similar symptoms or simply want to optimise your health, the MyHealthChecked Intolerances & Sensitivities DNA Test could provide the insights you need. Take the test today and discover how you can make changes to feel your best, both in everyday life and in your fitness journey.