Functional Supplements for Managing Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Distress: A Focused Review for Athletes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2025.45.66517Keywords
Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Distress, Supplements, Ginger, Athletes, ProbioticsAbstract
Introduction: Exercise-induced gastrointestinal (GI) distress is common among endurance and high-intensity athletes. Symptoms such as nausea, cramps, and diarrhea can impair performance and recovery. Functional supplements with anti-inflammatory and gut-supportive properties are being explored as complementary strategies.
Objective: This review evaluates six functional supplements—probiotics, ginger, curcumin, berberine, black currant, and bovine colostrum—for their potential to reduce exercise-induced GI symptoms.
Methods: Recent studies (2017–2025) were identified via PubMed and Scopus, prioritizing human trials in athletic or exercise settings. Clinical models such as IBS and heat stress were also considered where athlete-specific data were lacking.
Results: Probiotics and bovine colostrum show the most consistent benefits for gut integrity and immune modulation. Ginger and curcumin offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, while black currant and berberine show promise despite limited direct sports data. Effects vary by dose, strain, and supplementation duration.
Conclusions: Functional supplements may aid in managing GI distress in athletes. However, standardized protocols and athlete-specific trials are needed. Personalized approaches based on symptom profiles and training cycles may optimize efficacy.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Jakub Bazarewicz, Grzegorz Adaśko, Michał Świda, Cezary Kubuj, Urszula Mazur, Paulina Ogonowska, Daniel Dmowski, Anna Michalska, Julia Waszak, Marcin Siwik
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