Probiotics: Trusted Allies for AthletesLes probiotiques, des alliés pour les athlètes

Athletes face unique physiological challenges. During physical activity, the body requires energy, stamina, and full-system engagement. Intense effort, stress, fatigue, and recovery needs push the body to its limits.

INTENSE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY CAN CAUSE PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS, WEAKENING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND THE BODY’S NATURAL DEFENSES

There is a well-documented link between exercise and infection risk, known as the J-curve model by researcher David Nieman [1]. The more intense and prolonged the activity, the higher the risk of developing infections. Athletes undergoing intense training are more prone to cold- and flu-like symptoms (runny nose, cough, sore throat…). A weakened immune system increases susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs)—mouth, nose, throat, larynx, trachea—which are a common reason for missed training sessions or competitions, ultimately impacting performance.

Supplementing with specific probiotic strains can help stimulate the body’s immune defenses and reduce the duration and intensity of infection episodes. It’s important to remember that 60–70% of immune cells are found in the gut.

GASTROINTESTINAL FUNCTIONS ARE ALSO AFFECTED DURING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

During exercise, blood flow is redirected to the lungs and heart at the expense of other organs. This can disrupt intestinal motility (the movement of food through the digestive system) and damage intestinal epithelial cells. The result: increased intestinal permeability, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues and chronic inflammation. These gut disturbances may impair training quality and reduce athletic performance.

Certain probiotic strains improve intestinal barrier function by adhering to the gut lining. This “barrier effect” helps prevent the adhesion of harmful microorganisms. Regular intake of specific probiotics (such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) also stimulates immune cells, allowing the body to mount a balanced and effective immune response.

MENS SANA IN CORPORE SANO

Sport is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle—but it can also induce physiological stress and negatively affect the gastrointestinal and immune systems, especially during intense training or competition prep. While a moderate level of stress can be beneficial and motivating (promoting a competitive spirit and personal growth), excessive stress can impair physical performance and gut health. The gut—often called our “second brain”—becomes more vulnerable to various disorders.

The gut microbiome and the immune system are key players in overall health. Both can be supported and rebalanced through the intake of specific probiotic strains.

[1] Nieman, D.C. (1997). Risk of upper respiratory tract infection in athletes: an epidemiologic and immunologic perspective. Journal of Athletic Training, 32(4), 344–349.