The digestive system is also known as the "second nervous system" of the human body, and the reasons for this are many. It is clear that it has a huge influence on the body's overall mechanism. When it comes to building muscle, one would not think it has anything to do with the gastrointestinal tract. You will be surprised, however, at how connected they actually are. For this reason it is important to optimise our gastrointestinal health if we want to build muscle. The microflora in the stomach plays a key role. Over time it becomes disrupted, which could be the cause of health problems that limit the ability to build muscle mass. To support the microflora, probiotics are needed.
Here are 5 reasons why probiotics are so important in fitness.
- Faster absorption of nutrients
If we suffer from poor gut health, most of the nutrients we take in cannot be absorbed and go "to waste". Probiotics help the gut recognise and absorb nutrients. Taken over a longer period, these nutrients turn into a large amount of energy, which benefits those who exercise. In short: probiotics have the potential to increase the metabolism of nutrients, turning them into proteins that support the building of muscle mass.
- Stronger immunity
The common cold is one of the biggest obstacles for people who exercise actively, as it becomes almost impossible to keep to their training schedule. In addition, all of the body's energy goes into fighting the viruses. Probiotics strengthen the immune system and protect the body from cold and flu viruses. They boost the immunity of the stomach and reduce the number of pathogens entering the body. A favourable and balanced gut microflora also means there is no room for pathogenic organisms. They are simply washed away.
- Strong fitness motivation
Approximately 90% of the serotonin in the human body, also known as the "happiness hormone", is produced in the gut. This means that poor gut health may be the reason for low serotonin levels in the body. Studies show that good gut health is directly linked to high serotonin levels and therefore to our good mood. This leads to a desire to exercise, which increases our muscle mass.
- Fast metabolism
Good gut health means the intestines are working at full capacity. As a result, the metabolism speeds up. Also, since probiotics stimulate the intestinal flora, the greater energy spent on assimilating nutrients, combined with the better absorption of the necessary micronutrients, leads to a faster metabolism. A good metabolism means burning more energy, which in turn helps shed excess weight and build muscle in the gym.
- Heals the frequent complaints of athletes
Athletes often suffer from gas, bloating, diarrhoea, pain and respiratory problems, which are usually the result of a loss of balance in the gut. The main cause is an unbalanced intestinal flora. Good microflora in the gut ensures that the body is able to cope with these problems and minimise the negative effects on a person's physical condition.