ABSTRACT

The present review examines the complex and dynamic communication among physical exercise, the gut microbiome and brain activity, all contextualized within the microbiota-gut-brain axis network. Recent research studies indicate that regular physical exercise can significantly alter the structure and physiological activities of the gut microbiome, frequently enhance diversity and elevate the prevalence of beneficial bacteria (such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia municiphila). These microbial changes lead to variations in the levels of microbial metabolic products, like short-chain fatty acids in the circulation. The short-chain fatty acids are the important inducer (triggering) molecules that communicate with the brain (through vagus nerve), endocrine system (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), and immune system pathways. The review consolidates the findings how this change in the gut microbiota caused by exercise, affects several aspects of brain function, encompassing cognitive performance, mood control, and significantly lowering the risk of neurodegenerative and psychiatric complications. Comprehending this complex relationship is essential for formulating non-drug therapies, like physical activity and probiotic-prebiotic approaches, to enhance both physical and mental health. Keywords: Physical exercise, Gut microbiota, Brain activity, microbiota-gut-brain axis, Short- chain-fatty acids, physical and mental health
Publication date: 2026/10/01

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/October/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10501.pdf

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doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.10.10501