Researchers at Leiden University identified Roseburia inulinivorans - a gut bacterium common in Mediterranean diet consumers - as directly linked to improved muscle strength in mice. After four to eight weeks of supplementation, mice showed 30% stronger grip without increased muscle mass.
The microbe appears to shift muscle fibers from slow-twitch endurance type to fast-twitch strength type. Human trials are pending, but scientists envision it as a future probiotic or frailty drug - not an exercise replacement.
Major hurdles remain: The bacterium dies within seconds of oxygen exposure, requiring advanced pill encapsulation. Nutrition experts urge caution until human safety and efficacy are confirmed.