Diet, gut microbiome, and circulating metabolites in adults with high activity levels – The GUTS study

Project summary

The aim of this project is to investigate whether a dietary intervention can induce changes in the gut microbiota of highly trained individuals. Some studies have shown that elite athletes may have a less diverse, or more specialized, gut microbiota than the general population. In addition, animal studies have demonstrated that specific microbial species may influence athletic performance, for example by metabolizing and thereby reducing lactate levels in the gut. In this randomized controlled trial, participants will be assigned to either a control group or an intervention group. The intervention group will consume a daily meal consisting of barley porridge and kefir for four weeks. Stool, urine, and blood samples, dietary interviews, and records of training volume will be collected at baseline and at the end of the intervention period. The biological samples will be used for microbiota-related laboratory analyses. The project will contribute to increased knowledge of whether this dietary intervention can influence the gut microbiota and potentially promote beneficial effects on health, athletic performance, and recovery. The findings may also contribute to the development of more targeted dietary recommendations for physically active individuals and athletes.