Researchers have discovered an exciting link between gut bacteria and muscle strength. A recent study reveals that people with stronger muscles often carry a specific type of bacteria in their intestines called Roseburia inulinivorans. When this bacterium was given to mice, it significantly increased their grip strength.
Borja Martinez-Tellez, a sports scientist at Leiden University, suggests that this microbe could one day be part of a probiotic supplement to enhance muscle strength or even help treat frailty in older adults. Current research aims to ensure that this bacterium can be safely preserved in pill form.
Gut health plays a critical role in overall well-being. Previously, studies have linked a diverse gut microbiome to stronger muscles. For instance, nutrition researcher Matt Cooke noted that some bacteria could be connected to muscle frailty, although identifying which specific species is challenging.
In the study published in the journal Gut, researchers analyzed fecal samples from 90 young participants aged 18 to 25 and 33 older participants aged 65 to 71. They tested muscle strength by having participants squeeze a handheld device. Both age groups with stronger grips showed higher levels of R. inulinivorans. This bacterium thrives in people following a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s.
The young participants also did leg-press and bench-press exercises. Those who could lift heavier weights had more of both R. inulinivorans and another related species, Roseburia intestinalis. However, it’s important to note that healthier lifestyle choices among those who strength-train might contribute to the abundance of these bacteria.
To explore how R. inulinivorans affects muscle strength, researchers fed it to mice through a tube. Those mice gained a remarkable 30% increase in grip strength over four to eight weeks. Interestingly, while this bacterium improved strength, it didn’t lead to muscle growth. Another species, Roseburia faecis, increased muscle mass.
The researchers also found that R. inulinivorans caused changes in muscle tissue, transforming endurance-oriented fibers into strength-focused fibers. This is significant because it highlights a direct connection between a specific bacterium and muscle strength.
Despite the promising results, Cooke cautioned that these findings stemmed from mice whose gut microbiomes were previously cleared with antibiotics, making it unclear whether this influenced their strength.
The team has applied for a patent to harness R. inulinivorans for muscle strength enhancement. While it shows potential, Martinez-Tellez emphasized that this would not replace exercise but would complement it. They aim to develop a way to keep the bacteria alive in pill form, as it struggles in the presence of oxygen.
Looking forward, Martínez-Tellez is optimistic about exploring whether other gut bacteria could support physical performance. As we gain a deeper understanding of our gut microbiomes, the possibilities of enhancing strength through diet and probiotics become more exciting.
For more information on the study, you can view it in the journal Gut here.
