21/09/2025

ON SUNDAY September 21, 2025 theSunday Special VI

W HEN we talk about fit ness, most of us picture intense gym sessions, protein shakes or the latest wearable tech tracking our every heartbeat. But what if one of the most important elements of peak performance is something we can’t even see? Welcome to the world of gut health – a once-overlooked factor now recognised as a quiet driver of energy, focus and recovery. Scientists are increasingly drawing a direct line between gut health and performance, both physical and mental. Research into the microbiome – the com munity of microorganisms in our digestive system, shows its influence extends far beyond digestion. Your body’s hidden performance hub According to Jessica Simonis, Lead Sci entific Educator for Life-Space Group, the gut plays a central role in whole-body wellness. “The human gut is increasingly rec ognised as a central hub for health,” she explained. “From immune modulation to nutri ent metabolism, the microbiome works silently in the background, helping indi viduals perform at their best in everyday life.”

Digest to dominate: The surprising link between gut health and physical power

BY ASHRAF WAHAB

O ne example is the “gut-brain axis”, a two-way communication system between the gut and the central nervous system. This means that digestion doesn’t just affect nutrient absorption, but can also influence mood, focus, stress levels and even post workout recovery. “ Even those who seem fit may experience subtle imbalances in their gut microbiota. Probiot ics help support microbial diversity and restore bal ance, which is essential for anyone living an active or demanding life,” Simonis added. Beyond the athlete’s lifestyle “ Gut health is part of keeping my body in balance. With all the travel and back-to-back competitions, keeping my digestion steady helps me stay focused and energetic,” said national badminton player and for mer Asian Championship silver medallist Goh Sze Fei, also brand ambassador for Life-Space Malaysia.

Elite athletes like Goh face extreme versions of everyday challenges. Frequent flights, time zone changes and irregular meals all take a toll. But even without international tournaments, many Ma laysians juggle long commutes, stressful deadlines and social obligations – all of which affect the gut. “Maintaining a healthy gut helps pro fessionals stay energised and focused. It’s a small change with big payoffs,” Simonis said. Studies have shown, for instance, that certain probiotic strains such as Bifidobacterium lactis BI-04 support respiratory health, while Lactobacillus plantarum 299V can ease common diges tive symptoms. Although not a magic bul let, probiotics are increasingly recognised as a valuable tool for enhancing resilience. S mall steps, big difference So, how can the average Malaysian start taking care of their gut? “Rest well, eat balanced meals, drink enough water and look after your gut,” Goh advised. For some, probiotics can be an integral

part of their routine. “It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just start with one capsule a day. That’s what I do,” he said. T he benefits extend beyond digestion. Gut health has also been linked to mental clarity and mood regulation through its role in neurotransmitter production, such as serotonin. “Since starting on probiotics, I feel steadier and calmer. Even when things get hectic, I can stay focused and not get distracted easily,” Goh shared. Industry recognition reflects this growing awareness. Life-Space’s Broad Spectrum Probiotic, for example, was honoured at the 2024 Beauty Insider Awards in both Singapore and Malaysia – a sign that gut wellness is becoming part of mainstream health conversations. Whether you’re chasing medals, squeezing in a gym session after work or simply trying to stay sharp during a 9-to-5, it’s clear that performance isn’t only about muscles and endurance. More than ever, science is showing that it begins in the gut – perhaps the best teammate you never knew you had.

The human gut is increasingly recognised as a central hub for health.”

Simonis