The connection between gut health and exercise is a topic of growing interest! While it is widely known that exercise can help improve overall health and fitness, recent studies suggest that it may also have a positive impact on gut health. One such study was published in the journal of Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism (2020) which found that resistance exercise improved gut microbiome diversity and increased levels of short-chain fatty acids in overweight and obese women.

One way exercise can benefit gut health is by increasing blood flow to the intestines. This increased blood flow can help stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which in turn can improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. Additionally, exercise has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut, which is linked to a wide range of health problems, including autoimmune disorders and chronic diseases.

Regular exercise can also help improve bowel regularity and reduce the risk of constipation. This is because physical activity helps stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract, which can help move food and waste through the system more efficiently. Furthermore, exercise has been shown to increase the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut, which play a key role in maintaining gut health by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria and regulating inflammation.

It's important to note that the type and intensity of exercise can also impact gut health. While moderate-intensity exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on gut health, intense or prolonged exercise can have the opposite effect. This is because intense exercise can cause stress on the body, which can lead to inflammation and increased permeability of the gut lining.

Like most things, it is important to find a balance and your own personal ‘happy place’ when it comes to exercise. If you are a beginner looking to start a new routine, start gently using low impact exercise like brisk walking and avoid over-exerting your body. And of course, keep feeding your cut with a wide range of fermented foods.