Interação entre dieta, exercício físico e microbiota em atletas: uma revisão narrativa da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: The intestinal microbiota (IM) is constituted by millions of microorganisms, among them, bactérias, so its composition and diversity have a fundamental role in maintaining the homeostasis of the human body and in general health and disease condition. In addition, each person presents a unique IM profile, which performs specific functions, namely in terms of nutrient metabolism. However, inter-individual variability is not the only factor responsible for differences in IM composition, since it responds to external stimuli, mainly food and physical activity, which contribute to altering the diversity or concentration of bacterial strains. Objective: To describe the modulating role of food in the bidirectional relationship between the intestinal microbiota in athletes and physical exercise. Methodology: The present work is a narrative review of the literature. It is based on bibliographic research, in a qualitative way, using research sources such as: original articles and review articles, books and academic works (course conclusion works, dissertations and theses). MEDLINE via PUBMED, SCIELO, LILACS, EMBASE and the Google Scholar platform were used as databases. The selected search terms (keywords and descriptors - DeCS) were used in various combinations and articles that were in disagreement with the title, those that did not have objectives related to the topic and those that involved participants younger than age were excluded from the study. to 18 years. Development: The characteristics of physical exercise, such as intensity, time and type, can positively or negatively influence the composition of IM. In fact, it is not yet possible to establish a causal relationship between exercise and IM, without considering the role of energy availability and food intake of athletes. The type of carbohydrates consumed, the amount of protein, the adequate intake of fiber and lipids or the intake of supplements, including probiotics, have a considerable impact on this analysis, since the characteristics and absorptive capacity of IM are closely related. related to these factors. Conclusion: The relationship between intestinal microbiota, diet, physical exercise and its intensity are capable of influencing changes in the diversity and quantity of bacterial strains present in the gastrointestinal tract. When combined with a healthy and balanced diet, rich in complex carbohydrates, including fiber, adequate protein quality and quantity, low lipid content, probiotic supplementation and hydration, exercise-induced stress can be minimized, improving IM functioning, performance and physical performance of athletes.