5 Tips for Attending Sporting Events with IBS
Recently, I had to take my nephew to his baseball game, and it got me thinking how far I have come with my IBS diagnosis. If it were three years ago, I could never have gone. The urgency I was dealing with at the time was far too intense, and just the thought of being in a public space where bathrooms are far away would be a hard no for me.
However, now that I am managing my IBS loads better, I thought I would give some tips on how to attend a sporting event. It is definitely possible with planning, and if your IBS is not flaring or severe, you can absolutely manage going with a couple of tricks. Let’s take a look:
1. Eat safe foods the day before and day of
My recommendation is before the event, eat safe foods the day before and day of. This will keep you from having any unexpected urgency while at the sporting event. You definitely want to do everything possible to keep your bowels calm.
I highly suggest not eating stadium food. They are highly processed and can trigger urgency turning your day into a nightmare. If you can pack your own snacks do so and eat before the event so you aren’t too hungry during the game.
2. Bring an emergency bag
Whether in a purse or backpack, bring an emergency bag always. In mine I have an extra pair of underwear, feminine pads, wipes, toilet paper and peppermint essential oil. These items give me the insurance I need just in case I have an unexpected accident.
3. Position yourself near the bathroom
Try and seat yourself in the aisle seat so that if you have to use the restroom in the middle of the game, you can get up without bothering anyone or bringing attention to yourself. Before the game starts, locate the restrooms so that you aren’t panicked looking for it when the time hits.
If you can’t find an aisle seat, no worries. People often get up during games and it is no big deal. Don’t over think it.
4. Have a portable toilet in your car
Recently, I saw on Amazon that there are portable toilets you can buy for a reasonable price. I think this is brilliant. Not all sporting events are the same. You might be in a large stadium where restrooms are plenty. Or it can be a small field where there is only one restroom available.
If this is the case. I think it is smart to have a portable toilet in your car Absolute worst case scenario, you can jump in your car and use it. I’ve never had to, but knowing this is an option really lowers anxiety and stress levels.
5. Don’t overthink
Lastly, it is important to not over think or stress yourself out. If you constantly have negative thoughts in your head, chances are something negative will happen. So focus on the positive. Be prepared. Know where the restrooms are. Set yourself up for success and enjoy the sporting event.
How about you? Do you have any tips you would like to add? Do you attend sporting events or do you say no to attending? Comment below, we love to hear from you.
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