The Role of Regular Physical Activity in Enhancing Metabolic Health, Reducing Inflammation, and Improving Gut Function

The project aims to assess the impact of increased physical activity on inflammation and gut permeability, and consequently on metabolic health in individuals.

Hypothesis: Regular physical activity, even at low intensity, improves metabolic parameters and reduces gut inflammation, thus positively affecting the health of individuals.

Description: The study will involve individuals aged 50 and older. The experimental group will consist of 50 participants who will engage in organized exercise sessions led by trainers twice a week for 12 months, and 50 participants who will not participate in sports activities. Participants will be assessed twice, before the start of the exercise program and after completing the 12 month training program. Participants will be recruited into two groups differing in training intensity. One group will participate in low-intensity dance classes, while the other group will engage in calisthenics (body weight resistance training) at a higher intensity.

The study will include: anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, surveys, biochemical tests, and stool sample analysis. Height will be measured using a GMP Swiss Made anthropometer (accuracy ±1mm), body weight with an electronic personal scale RADWAG C315.60/150.OW-1 (accuracy ±100g), and body composition will be assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) with the Lunar Prodigy device (General Electric Medical Systems, USA). Lifestyle and dietary habits will be assessed using a questionnaire method. The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and food diaries (participants will be asked to record their intake for 3 days before the start and 3 days after the completion of the training program) will be used.

Biochemical blood tests will measure glucose, insulin, amylin, C-peptide, ghrelin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), leptin, and secretin as markers of metabolic changes, as well as C-reactive protein (CRP), calprotectin, zonulin, and secretory immunoglobulin A as markers of inflammation and gut permeability. The measurement of metabolic markers will be performed using commercially available Multiplex kits (based on magnetic bead technology), allowing for a broader range of results with a smaller volume of biological material and lower overall cost. The assessment of inflammation and gut permeability markers will be performed using commercially available ELISA kits. Based on fasting glucose and insulin levels, the insulin sensitivity index HOMA-IR will be calculated.

Inclusion criteria

• Age over 50 years
• No contraindications for engaging in physical activity

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of diseases that prevent participation in physical activity