For many athletes, allergies, food intolerances, and intestinal problems are an often underestimated problem that can impair performance and recovery. The gut plays a key role: it influences not only digestion, but also the immune system and inflammatory reactions in the body.
Why are a healthy gut flora and gut barrier crucial?
A balanced gut flora strengthens the intestinal barrier and prevents unwanted substances from entering the bloodstream. With a permeable intestinal wall ("leaky gut"), immune reactions can occur that promote allergies and intolerances. Such reactions negatively affect well-being and athletic performance.
Common symptoms and effects in sports
- Abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation during or after training.
- Increased susceptibility to infection and chronic fatigue
- Worsened recovery and reduced training capacity
Digestive problems occur particularly frequently in endurance athletes – studies report that up to 50% of athletes are affected, which can negatively influence competition results.
What helps?
- Pre- and probiotic foods support a vibrant and resilient gut flora.
- Targeted nutrition that avoids intolerances promotes the gut and reduces inflammation.
- Good recovery, moderate training and stress management are essential to strengthen the immune system in the long term.
Conclusion
Allergies and intolerances are closely linked to gut health and the microbiome. Athletes benefit enormously from good gut function – it is a key to performance optimization, reduces discomfort and facilitates recovery.
Sources
Influence of the gut microbiota on the performance of athletes https://www.zeitschrift-sportmedizin.de/einfluss-der-darmmikrobiota-auf-die-leistung-von-sportlern/
Sports and the gut: How the two are connected https://www.dak.de/dak/gesundheit/bewegung-und-sport/sport-fakten-wissen/so-beeinflusst-der-darm-deine-fitness_16544
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