The Importance of Microbiota in Sports Nutrition

Recent studies have addressed the effects of the microbiota on the human body. The presence of the microbiota varies depending on the composition of bacteria colonizing the digestive system, genetic makeup, lifestyle, antibiotic use, and the presence of diseases. A person's diet is crucial for the diversity of microbiota species. Studies have shown the effects of probiotic use on the gut microbiota in athletes. Physical activity increases the number of bacteria, particularly those belonging to the Clostridiales order and the genera Lactobacillus, Prevotella, Bacteroides, and Veillonella, and these numbers vary depending on the sport. These bacteria are found in athletes participating in sports requiring high VO2 max. Athletes' nutrition also influences the composition of the microbiota. A high-fiber diet increases the amount of probiotic microorganisms such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium bacteria, indicating the need to add probiotics and prebiotics to the diet. It is not possible to give a definitive answer as to how the gastrointestinal microbiota changes in athletes, and further studies and analysis are required. This study describes the relationships between physical activity, nutrition, and digestive system microbiota in athletes, and the differences in microbial composition in various sports.