How gut health impacts your performance

The importance of the gut in overall health and performance is gaining recognition in both science and sports. The intestine is home to a complex ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms, the so-called microbiome. This not only influences digestion and nutrient absorption but also plays a key role in the immune system, metabolism, and mental resilience.

A functioning microbiome is far more than just a component of digestion. Scientific studies* show that balanced gut flora has a positive effect on your energy levels, muscle regeneration, and even mental strength. Especially for athletes who push their bodies to the max, a healthy gut is crucial for optimizing training results and staying healthy long-term.

Probiotics: The “good bacteria”

Probiotics are live microorganisms that support the balance of the intestinal flora. Studies* indicate that probiotics:

1. Improve nutrient absorption, which is essential for muscle building and energy.
2. Alleviate digestive discomfort, which can often occur during intense training.
3. Strengthen the immune system to reduce missed workouts due to illness.

An example of probiotic foods is fermented products such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, or kimchi.

Prebiotics: The “food” for the microbiome

Prebiotics are indigestible dietary fibers that promote the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria. Typical prebiotic foods are onions, garlic, asparagus, bananas, whole grains, and oats.

Prebiotics have an anti-inflammatory effect and provide energy, which is particularly beneficial during intense training sessions.

Postbiotics: The metabolic products

Postbiotics are the products of the metabolism of probiotic bacteria. They have anti-inflammatory properties, promote muscle regeneration, and can reduce oxidative stress – a common problem in high-performance sports.

Synbiotics: The perfect synergy

Synbiotic supplements combine probiotics and prebiotics to provide comprehensive gut health support. This combination not only promotes the balance of intestinal flora but also improves nutrient absorption and reduces gastrointestinal complaints that often occur during high-intensity workouts. This combination offers valuable support, especially for athletes who have to cope with high physical and mental demands.

1. Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
A healthy gut optimizes the utilization of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, playing a vital role in muscle building, energy supply, and overall well-being.

2. Boosts immune system
Since a large part of the immune system is located in the gut, probiotics strengthen the immune system and minimize the risk of infections – a clear advantage for regular training sessions.

3. Less inflammation and faster regeneration
Probiotics reduce inflammation, promote muscle repair, and shorten the recovery time after intense training sessions.

4. Enhances stress management
The gut-brain connection plays a key role in mental well-being and stress resilience. Probiotics can help to ease anxiety and boost mental strength.

The link between healthy gut flora and athletic performance is clear. It’s a key piece of the puzzle in living a holistic, healthy lifestyle – which we at Freeletics are all about. And it’s exactly why we partnered with mybacs®.

With a mission to make gut health accessible to all, mybacs® develops innovative, scientifically-backed synbiotic supplements designed to support the microbiome, improve digestion, and promote long-term wellness.

A balanced microbiome not only supports athletic performance but also boosts overall well-being, making it a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. For athletes striving for sustainable fitness goals and improving daily health, the combination of targeted exercise and mybacs® synbiotics creates the perfect foundation for peak physical and mental performance.