Investigating a Novel Multi-strain Probiotic Supplement on Indices of Exercise Performance and Recovery

A total of 36 healthy, and active men and women aged 18-40 years of age will be recruited and allocated randomly into either a probiotic or placebo group, where both the investigator and participants will be blinded to the supplements (double-blind randomised control trial format).

Each participant will be asked to attend the research laboratory on eight separate occasions and to refrain from high-intensity exercise (e.g. long-distance running, competitive sport, weightlifting) in the 48 hours prior to each visit and light exercise (e.g. mild jogging or long walk) the day before each visit. They will also be asked to refrain from alcohol intake for 24 hours before each visit and caffeine intake on the morning of the visit.

Visit 1

Following consent, the participants will complete a ramp incremental exercise test for determination of volume of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and the first abrupt change in the oxygen (VO2) and carbon dioxide (VCO2) concentrations of the expired air known as Gas Exchange Threshold (GET). The data collected during the incremental test will be used to calculate the work rates which will be employed during the subsequent exercise tests. The participant will also be asked to complete a food frequency and exercise questionnaire to understand general dietary and training practices.

Visit2