Bacteria in your gut may make your muscles 30% stronger

A recent study titled “Roseburia inulinivorans increases muscle strength,” published in the journal Gut, revealed an unexpected relationship between gut bacteria and muscle strength, reinforcing the concept of a gut-muscle axis in the human body.

The researchers found that a particular type of beneficial bacteria, known as Roseporia inulinivorans, is associated with improved muscle performance in humans, as individuals with higher levels of it showed greater strength in various physical tests.

Genomic analyses

The researchers based the study design on conducting comprehensive genomic analyses – metagenomics – on groups of adults, young and old, who were accurately assessed in terms of muscle strength.

The relationship between different bacterial species and indicators of muscle performance was investigated. Causality was assessed by orally administering selected bacterial species to antibiotic-treated mice. Metabolic analyses and muscle examinations were also performed to understand the underlying mechanisms.

The results indicated that older adults whose intestines contain these bacteria have about 30% higher muscle strength, while similar benefits appeared in younger people as well.

Laboratory experiments on animals also supported these results, as the addition of bacteria led to a clear improvement in muscle strength and changes in its structure.

Researchers believe this discovery could open the door to developing treatments or nutritional supplements based on beneficial bacteria to support physical fitness and prevent muscle weakness with age, but they stress the need for further studies on humans.