# Gut Microbiota Profile and the Impact of Probiotic Supplementation in Competitive Cyclists: A Scoping Review

## TL;DR

This review explores gut microbiota in competitive cyclists and finds that probiotics may improve performance and recovery.

## Contribution

The study identifies a unique gut microbiota profile in cyclists and suggests probiotics could enhance athletic performance.

## Key findings

- Competitive cyclists show an abundance of Prevotella, linked to glucose and short-chain fatty acid metabolism.
- A 16-week multi-strain probiotic protocol improved aerobic performance and exertion rate in amateur cyclists.
- Probiotics may reduce gastrointestinal and respiratory infections in athletes during training and competition.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: The recent discovery of the importance of gut microbiota has enhanced our understanding of several issues related to energy metabolism, immune systems, and post-exercise recovery, which could have an impact on sports performance. Probiotics are used as sports supplements and have recently been proposed to be effective in reducing the incidence of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections during training and competition. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the gut microbiota composition of competitive cyclists and investigate the effect of probiotic administration in this sports population. Methods: A literature review was conducted using the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus, and all studies until 1 November 2025 were considered. After dual-reviewer screening, data were charted to identify the composition of gut microbiota and the effects of probiotics on these types of athletes. Results: After all the study identification phases, eleven studies were selected. Seven studies evaluated the composition of the gut microbiota, while four randomized controlled trials evaluated probiotic intake. The results indicate an abundance of Prevotella distinct for this type of athlete, which could facilitate the metabolism of glucose and short-chain fatty acids. Among the four main areas of improvement identified in relation to probiotics, a 16-week multi-strain supplementation protocol showed improved aerobic performance and exertion rate in amateur cyclists. Conclusions: Despite the limited number of studies, certain microbiota traits could be identified in competitive cyclists, which may correspond to their high metabolic rate. Although further strain standardized studies are needed on professional cyclists, the data could indicate that certain probiotic supplementation may be an effective addition for competitive cyclists.