Researchers have discovered the first definitive evidence that exercise can change gut microbial composition independent of diet. In the study, researchers followed 18 lean and 14 obese sedentary adults for six weeks while they maintained their normal diet. A comparison of pre- and post-study fecal samples revealed increases in concentrations of short-chain fatty acids, which promote healthy intestinal cells, reduce inflammation, and generate energy.
Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, November 2017