A Narrative Review of Probiotics and their Effects on Sports Nutrition

Background: Probiotics, which are found in certain foods, are a suitable source for boosting our immune system and a proper choice for overall health. Regarding this, they might be also considered a health supplement for athletes thanks to their numerous benefits on the body in the sports world.Materials and Methods: In the search for scientific literature related to this review the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) used MEDLINE and Sport Discus data and the terms ‘ probiotics ‘ ‘ sports’ and ‘immune system’ were used. The relevant literature has also taken its source from the research of relevant articles from reference lists derived from data studies.Resultsː When all the possible advantages of probiotics on the overall health of athletes are considered, their consumption of them should be encouraged much more in the sports world. In this way, athletes could improve their performances by maintaining and improving their immune systems and be protected against common health problems.Conclusion: Studies show that probiotics provide protection against various diseases and disorders that athletes commonly suffer from, and they also reduce the number of days with symptoms when in case of diseases such as upper respiratory or gastrointestinal infection by boosting the immune system.