Exercise not only strengthens muscles and bones but also impacts the trillions of gut microbes, known as the microbiome. A study at the University of Calgary investigated how exercise shapes gut microbiota in non-athletes, finding that moderate physical activity (≥150 minutes per week) increased the richness and diversity of gut microbiomes. Surprisingly, the duration of exercise mattered more than its intensity in improving gut microbes.

However, the study found that these changes differed among individuals, with the most beneficial effects seen in those of normal weight compared to overweight individuals. This is because being overweight influences the gut microbiome independently of exercise, where poor dietary habits can negate some benefits of exercise on gut microbes.

The key takeaway: aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week and maintain a healthy weight for an optimal gut microbiome.

https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.202201571R


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