Phase-Specific Alterations in Gut Microbiota and Their Associations with Energy Intake and Nutritional Clustering in Competitive Weightlifters.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: This study investigated how phase-specific dietary strategies and weight regulation influence gut microbiota composition and diversity in competitive weightlifters. Particular emphasis was placed on integrating energy intake, macronutrient clustering, and weight fluctuations across distinct training phases. Methods: Thirteen competitive weightlifters were recruited, with 10-12 contributing complete data per phase. Fecal and dietary samples were collected during the preparation, competition, and transition phases. Gut microbiota was profiled via 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and alpha/beta diversity was analyzed using QIIME2. K-means clustering based on caloric/macronutrient intake identified dietary patterns. Taxonomic differences were assessed using DESeq2

SUBMITTER: Kuo CY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12566984 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature