Scientists from the University of Calgary found that 150 minutes or more of physical activity per week increases the abundance and diversity of gut bacteria. Research published FASEB Magazine.
The authors noted that the microbiomes of athletes and people who lead a sedentary lifestyle are different. In a new study, scientists confirmed that this is due to physical activity.
At the same time, the duration of the activity was more important than its intensity. The best results were seen in participants who exercised 150 minutes or more per week. The reasons for the change in the microbiome during training are unknown.
The study also showed that changes in the microbiome were not the same between different groups of people. The most significant changes were observed in normal-weight people compared to overweight people. The scientists suggest this may be due to poor eating habits outweighing the effects of exercise on the gut microbiome.
Previous research has shown that gut bacteria play a role in the development of many diseases, from intestinal disorders to depression.