Exercise and the Gut Microbiome

Perhaps you've been hearing "buzz" surrounding the microbiome. 

For starters, the microbiome encompasses the bacteria that resides in the gut (digestive tract). Just recently, science has discovered a strong correlation between our gut bacteria and how it may relate to disease risk and overall health, including athletic performance. 

As we know, nutrition and physical activity/exercise play an integral role in our overall health. The nutrients consumed from a well-balanced nutritious lifestyle are key in promoting a, highly diverse, healthful gut. 

Regarding athletic performance, a nutrient-dense performance plate (whole grains, fruits and veggies) supports the overall function of the gut, including the production of energy from non-carbohydrate sources (fats and proteins) during prolonged and/or intense exercise - when our immediate fuel stores have been depleted. Supporting previous evidence-based findings associated with injury prevention and recovery, a nutrient-rich performance plate can decrease risk for injury and accelerate an athlete's recovery.

So when all is said and done, a nutrient-dense performance plate goes beyond the scope of what is seen. Consider the how a well-balanced and nutrient-dense lifestyle can impact your overall sport performance and health! 

Healthy Regards,
Jessica G. Anderson, MS, RD, LD, ACSM EP-C

​#FuelForTheGOLD #FuelForTheGUT 
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Source: Crosier, M., PhD, RD. (2019). Exercise and the human gut microbiome [PDF].