Recent research is shedding light on the pivotal role of gut microbiota in shaping athletic performance.
Your gut is an intricate ecosystem influencing various bodily functions, including energy production, inflammation control, and even recovery (Bengmark, 2013).
A groundbreaking study published in Journal of Sport and Health Science revealed that certain gut bacteria, particularly Veillonella, metabolize lactic acid produced during exercise into propionate, a short-chain fatty acid linked to improved endurance (Sales & Reimer, 2023).
Athletes with higher levels of this microbe performed better in endurance activities (Palladina & Kaliga, 2024).
Could optimizing gut health be the next frontier in sports science?
Moreover, inflammation is a double-edged sword for athletes: while essential for recovery, chronic inflammation can hinder performance (Peake et al., 2017).
Specific probiotics have been shown to modulate inflammatory responses, helping athletes recover faster after intense training (Kearns et al., 2024).
The takeaway of this article?
Personalized nutrition targeting gut health could soon become a cornerstone of sports performance.
At NIUM, we’re dedicated to harnessing cutting-edge science to unlock the full potential of the microbiome.
Read more about NIUM’s work and services on our website.
References:
Bengmark, S. (2013). Gut microbiota, immune development and function. Pharmacological research, 69(1), 87-113.
Kearns, R. P., Dooley, J. S. G., Matthews, M., & McNeilly, A. M. (2024). Do probiotics mitigate GI-induced inflammation and perceived fatigue in athletes? A systematic review. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 21(1), 2388085.
Palladina, O. L., & Kaliga, A. M. (2024). DIFFERENCES IN THE MICROBIOME OF ATHLETES DEPENDING ON THE MECHANISM OF ENERGY SUPPLY OF MUSCLE ACTIVITY.
Peake, J. M., Neubauer, O., Della Gatta, P. A., & Nosaka, K. (2017). Muscle damage and inflammation during recovery from exercise. Journal of applied physiology.
Sales, K. M., & Reimer, R. A. (2023). Unlocking a novel determinant of athletic performance: The role of the gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids, and “biotics” in exercise. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 12(1), 36-44.