Exercise and Gut Microbiome: Trends and Advances in Research Methods

PURPOSE: To suggest future research directions and current research trends based on representative studies of existing exercises and the gut microbiome. In addition, we reviewed methodologies to study the relationship between exercise and the gut microbiome.METHODS: The research methodologies and results were integrated through a literature review of the latest “exercise and gut microbiome” studies and a narrative review.RESULTS: Although exercise is indirectly related to the gut microbiome or immunity, evidence for a direct effect is still lacking. However, with the recent discovery of gut microbiomes that can help improve exercise performance, it is clear that exercise can positively alter the gut microbiome.CONCLUSIONS: Strong evidence suggests that regular moderate exercise improves overall immune function and lowers the incidence of inflammation-related disease. In addition, certain microorganisms affect exercise performance.