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The Surprising Link Between Your Gut Biome and Your Motivation to ExerciseStaying active and motivated to exercise can become increasingly challenging as we age. However, recent research suggests gut bacteria may play a much bigger role in getting us going than previously thought A recent study discovered that the key to unlocking peak performance and motivation may lie in your gut! Two superstar bacteria, Eubacterium rectale and Coprococcus eutactus, have been identified as producing fatty acid amides (FAAs). These powerful little compounds stimulate the CB1 endocannabinoid receptors in your gut, leading to increased dopamine release in the motivation-controlling regions of your brain. And the best part? You can boost the levels of these bacteria in your gut simply by eating a diet rich in fibre, probiotics, and other gut-healthy foods. But it's not just about the science - it's about results! Engaging in regular physical activity can lead to improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and overall health. This can result in a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as lower all-cause mortality rates. In older adults, chronic, low-grade inflammation and immune senescence* are significant determinants of various diseases with high mortality rates. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of these diseases by improving immune functions, decreasing chronic inflammation, and increasing autophagy, a cellular process that degrades and removes cellular debris. *Immunosenescence is the gradual deterioration of the immune system, brought on by natural age advancement, closely related to the development of infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignant tumors. The Science Behind Boosting Your Desire to Exercise with Gut BacteriaEubacterium rectale and Coprococcus eutactus produce FAAs, which activate the CB1 receptors in the gut. These receptors connect via the spine to a motivation-controlling brain region via the spine. The result of the stimulation of these CB1 receptor-studded nerves is an increase in levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine during exercise, in a brain region called the ventral striatum. The striatum is a critical node in our brain's reward and motivation network. The researchers concluded that the extra dopamine in this region during exercise boosts performance by reinforcing the desire to exercise. The reasons for this connection are not clear, and study co-author, J. Nicholas Betley, PhD, an associate professor of Biology at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Arts and Sciences, says that "this line of research could develop into a whole new branch of exercise physiology." Dietary Sources of Eubacterium rectale and Coprococcus eutactusA healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health and well-being, including boosting the desire to exercise. To promote a healthy gut microbiome, consider incorporating the following dietary sources and foods into your daily routine:
To specifically target Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale, consider incorporating prebiotic fibres such as inulin and oligofructose into your diet. These fibres are found in foods like:
Action Plan for Targeting Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium RectaleHere is your 4-step action plan for targeting Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale:
By following this action plan and incorporating these dietary sources into your daily routine, you are likely to experience an increased desire to exercise and improved performance, fueled by a healthy gut microbiome that supports the growth of Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale. FAQs - Oligofructose-rich, Prebiotic and Insulin FoodsWhat are the best oligofructose-rich foods in an everyday diet? The best oligofructose-rich foods to incorporate into your everyday diet include chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, dandelion greens, and garlic. Chicory root can be used as a coffee substitute or added to salads; Jerusalem artichokes can be roasted, boiled, or sautéed; dandelion greens can be added to salads, sautéed, or used in smoothies; and garlic is a pungent culinary staple that supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Oligofructoses are short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that are found in some plants. They are a type of prebiotic fibre, which means that they can be used by beneficial bacteria in the gut to help support their growth and health. Oligofructoses have also been linked to improved metabolic health, including improved glucose tolerance and reduced fat storage. Are all prebiotic foods precursors of Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale? No, not all prebiotic foods are precursors of Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale. Prebiotic foods generally promote the growth of a variety of beneficial gut bacteria, including other species besides these two. While some prebiotics may serve as a precursor to these species, others may not have any effect on them. So, while consuming prebiotic-rich foods may support the growth of Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale to some extent, these foods can also contribute to the growth of other beneficial bacterial species in the gut. On the other hand, inulin and oligofructose are examples of prebiotic fibres that have been shown to specifically support the growth of Coprococcus Eutactus and Eubacterium Rectale. However, the gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem with countless interactions between various bacterial species. Therefore, maintaining a diverse and balanced diet that includes a wide range of prebiotic and probiotic foods is essential for overall gut health and well-being. 10 meal suggestions that feature chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, dandelion greens, and garlic
No limits!When you start incorporating these gut-boosting foods into your diet, you'll notice a tangible difference in your performance. Say goodbye to those mid-workout slumps and hello to a renewed sense of energy and motivation. And with the power of the FAA-stimulated CB1 receptors behind you, you'll be enjoying your workouts more than ever and achieving your goals faster than ever before. So what are you waiting for? Fuel up with fiber, reach for probiotics, and get ready to unleash the power of your gut. With Eubacterium rectale and Coprococcus eutactus on your side, there's no limit to what you can achieve :) > More posts to help you with FITNESS AFTER 50
> More posts to help you with Brain Health > If you are a @MEDIUM reader my publication Body Age Buster has hundreds of categorised posts which I have written especially for men and women over 50. Latest: get your free customised fitness plan designed uniquely for you.
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ChoicesSince I was diagnosed at 50 with Type 2 diabetes I've been learning how to do bone-building fitness training which lowers my age. You can too. It's your choice. Walter Categories
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