High-Dose Fiber Boosts Athletic Performance and Gut Health in Basketball Players

This randomized controlled trial reveals how dietary fiber supplementation can enhance athletic performance through gut health optimization. Intense exercise often disrupts gastrointestinal function and gut microbiota, potentially impairing recovery and performance in athletes.

Researchers studied 19 male college basketball players aged 17-25, randomly assigned to receive either high-dose (6.84g/day) or low-dose (3.24g/day) dietary fiber through enriched meals for 8 weeks while maintaining regular training schedules. The study measured gut microbiota diversity, body composition, fatigue markers, metabolism, and athletic performance.

Both groups showed significant improvements across multiple metrics. Body weight decreased by 2.77kg (high-dose) and 2.40kg (low-dose), while body fat percentage dropped 1.87% and 1.49% respectively. Cortisol levels, a key stress marker, decreased substantially in both groups. Athletic performance improved markedly: maximum power increased by 27.16W (high-dose) vs 14.50W (low-dose), VO2 max improved by 8.78 vs 6.90 units, and agility times decreased by 0.48s vs 0.25s. Fasting blood glucose also decreased significantly in the high-dose group.

The high-dose group experienced more stable gut microbiome changes, suggesting better adaptation. These findings indicate that fiber supplementation may be a simple, effective strategy for athletes seeking performance enhancement through gut health optimization, though optimal dosing requires further investigation.