Recent research highlights the significant yet complex relationship between exercise and gut microbiota, revealing that physical activity can alter the composition and function of gut microbes. The gut microbiota, which can weigh up to 2 kg and comprises over 1,000 bacterial species, plays a crucial role in digestion, metabolism, and immune health.
Animal studies have shown that exercise boosts beneficial short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, enhancing gut barrier integrity and immune function. However, findings vary based on factors like exercise type and diet, making it challenging to draw broad conclusions.
Human studies corroborate these findings, indicating that active individuals exhibit greater microbial diversity and higher levels of beneficial bacteria than their sedentary counterparts. A recent longitudinal study revealed that lean participants in an exercise program saw increases in key bacterial populations, while changes in obese individuals were less favorable.
Potential mechanisms behind these changes include alterations in gut immune responses, shifts in the intestinal environment during exercise, and the nervous system’s role in regulating gut transit time. Further research is needed to fully understand how exercise influences gut health and to identify the underlying mechanisms involved.
See also:
Five Tips to Ensure Your Gut Health Doesn’t “Fall” Behind This Autumn
