This randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate the effects of a B. longum subsp. longum Olympic No. 1 (OLP-01) supplementation (1.5 x 10(10) CFU/day for five weeks) in well-trained middle- and long-distance runners. 21 subjects have been enrolled. During the five weeks of supplementation, they performed 3 weeks of regular training followed by 2 weeks of de-training.

Results showed a significant change in the 12-min Copper’s test running distance, highlighting a beneficial effect of the supplementation on performance. In addition, a modulation of gut microflora has been measured.

Therefore, a supplementation in B. longum subsp. longum OLP-01 may improve physical performance in well-trained runners.

Lin CL, Hsu YJ, Ho HH, et al. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum OLP-01 Supplementation during Endurance Running Training Improves Exercise Performance in Middle- and Long-Distance Runners: A Double-Blind Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2020;12(7):E1972.

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