Can Gut Bacteria Predict Who Benefits Most From Exercise? A Gut Supplement to Help Exercise Non-Responders

Participants will complete a 12-week supervised cardiovascular exercise program at the TCU Recreation Center. Exercise will occur 5 days per week, beginning with 30 minutes per session and progressing to 60 minutes. Intensity will start at 50% of estimated maximal heart rate and gradually increase to 80% by week 8, remaining at that level through week 12. Exercise modalities may include treadmill walking/running, rowing, elliptical, or cycling, based on participant preference and fitness level. Certified trainers will supervise all sessions to ensure safety, proper technique, and adherence to the intensity targets. Participants will wear ActiGraph heart rate monitors to verify exercise intensity throughout the intervention.

Participants will take a dietary supplement containing sodium butyrate during the final 4 weeks (weeks 8-12) of the 12-week intervention. The supplement will be provided in capsule form, with participants instructed to take six capsules per day-two with each meal. This daily dose is equivalent to 3.6 g of butyric acid, which provides 939 mg of sodium, delivered as sodium butyrate. The supplement is intended to support gut health and potentially enhance insulin sensitivity in individuals who do not respond to exercise alone. Participants will receive a 4-week supply during their 8-week study visit, along with instructions for proper use and monitoring of any side effects.