The Benefits of Exercise for Gut Health

SadaNews - The benefits of exercise are no longer limited to physical fitness and mental health only; a recent study has revealed that physical activity is also capable of "reorganizing" the gut microbiome, providing new evidence of the crucial role of the digestive system in overall health.

Athletes' Gut Microbiota is Different

Researchers at Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia found that the intensity and frequency of exercise create noticeable changes in the microbial community within the digestive system, according to what was published by New Atlas citing the International Society of Sports Nutrition.

Researcher Bronwyn Charlson confirmed that athletes enjoy greater microbial diversity and higher levels of short-chain fatty acids, which are linked to gut lining health and reduced inflammation.

The study involved 23 high-performance rowers, where researchers compared their intense training period before a national championship with a "rest" period of lower training loads.

During the intense training period, levels of butyrate increased from 64 to 105 mmol/L, and propionate from 91 to 121 mmol/L, reflecting an improvement in digestion and increased bowel movement.

„Feeding“ the Bacteria

Researchers also explained that intense exercise raises lactate levels produced by muscles, which reaches the gut where it is consumed by certain microbes and converted into short-chain fatty acids, which in turn help regulate pH and support the growth of beneficial microbes.

During rest seasons, with a relatively constant amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, the quality of the participants' diets declined: less consumption of fruits and vegetables and a greater reliance on ready-made foods.

The result was slowed digestion, decreased levels of short-chain fatty acids, and reduced abundance of beneficial bacteria.

A Clear Message

The study concluded that the intensity of exercise itself is a crucial factor in shaping the gut environment, not just maintaining a healthy diet.

Whether through gym workouts, cycling, or even brisk walking, regular physical activity contributes to enhancing gut health and adds a new dimension to the list of the multiple benefits of exercise.