The gut microbiome is responsible for proper functioning of metabolism, the immune system, and the brain. Studies have shown that endurance athletes have a different gut microbiome than the general microbiome. Some elite runners have Veillonella. This can increase the body’s lactate threshold, which is how long an athlete can withstand intense exercise.
A healthy diet plays a critical role in microbiome and mitochondrial health.
Studies have shown that certain strains of probiotic bacteria can improve barrier function, reduce systemic inflammation, and potentially enhance athletic performance. This happens by reducing the side effects of high-intensity exercise. You can do this by increasing your intake of fermented foods, such as yogurt and pickled vegetables, to increase microbiome diversity and reduce systemic inflammation.
In some cases, healthy foods can also provide the body with important metabolites produced by microbes. Scientific studies have shown that these metabolites (postbiotics or exercise mimics) improve muscle strength and exercise performance. Some also act as prebiotics, meaning they boost the growth of healthy microbes and help repair damaged microbiomes.
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Source: Ferra
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