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Does the Intestinal Microbiome Impact Athletic Performance?

  • Nutrition and Obesity (S McClave and E Omer, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Gastroenterology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To analyze current research involving elite athletes and the gut microbiome, with the goal to expand knowledge of potential sports performance strategies and interventions.

Recent Findings

Most of the current research focuses on theoretical applications from microbiome research and known characteristics of performance, as few studies have actually been conducted in elite athletes. However, of the studies that have been conducted, the research is promising that dietary strategies may provide targeted interventions in the future.

Summary

The majority of sports nutrition takes an external approach to diet: manipulating macronutrient intake based on type of training and performance goals. However, shifting to an internal focus, prioritizing the health of the gut microbiome, could be a new frontier for a competitive edge in athletics.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA

    Melissa M. Crowson

  2. University of Louisville Athletics - Sports Nutrition Department, Louisville, USA

    Melissa M. Crowson

  3. Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA

    Stephen A. McClave

Authors
  1. Melissa M. Crowson
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  2. Stephen A. McClave
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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest to disclose.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Nutrition and Obesity

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Crowson, M.M., McClave, S.A. Does the Intestinal Microbiome Impact Athletic Performance?. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 22, 53 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-020-00790-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-020-00790-2

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