The Role of Gut Microbiome Modulation in Athletic Performance, Recovery, and Quality of Training: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.69.74249Keywords
gut microbiota, sport, physical performance, recovery, probiotics, prebiotics, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), gut–muscle axis, gut–brain axis, sports nutritionAbstract
Background: Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota influences exercise performance through the production of metabolites that regulate numerous physiological processes. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), including butyrate, acetate, and propionate, contribute to energy metabolism, immune regulation, skeletal muscle function, and post-exercise recovery. Gut microbiota composition also affects intestinal barrier integrity and may reduce exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS).
Aim: To summarize current evidence regarding the role of the gut microbiota in athletic performance, recovery, training quality, and gastrointestinal health, and to evaluate nutritional strategies targeting the gut microbiome in athletes.
Material and methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature published mainly between 2016 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Original studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and position statements investigating the gut microbiota, physical performance, recovery, probiotics, prebiotics, dietary interventions, and EIGS were included.
Results: Current evidence indicates that SCFA-producing bacteria enhance mitochondrial function, ATP production, glycogen storage, and anti-inflammatory responses. Probiotic strains and fiber-rich diets may improve recovery, immune function, intestinal barrier integrity, and exercise capacity. Veillonella atypica may enhance endurance by converting exercise-induced lactate into propionate, whereas prolonged high-protein, low-fiber diets may adversely affect gut microbiota composition.
Conclusions: Targeted modulation of the gut microbiota through appropriate nutrition and selected probiotic supplementation may improve athletic performance, recovery, intestinal health, and training quality. Further well-designed clinical studies are needed to develop personalized microbiome-based nutritional strategies for athletes.
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