Welcome to our latest blog where we explore the latest research on how probiotics can help with anxiety and stress. We all know that anxiety and stress can have a detrimental effect on our physical and mental well-being, but can probiotics really help to alleviate these symptoms? Let’s find out.
The Gut and the Brain
The connection between the gut and the brain is becoming increasingly acknowledged by researchers. The gastrointestinal tract is often referred to as the ‘second brain’ due to its complex nervous system and the fact that it produces many of the same neurotransmitters as the central nervous system.
It’s thought that the gut and brain communicate with each other in a bidirectional manner via the vagus nerve, which is a nerve that links the brainstem to the digestive system. This connection means that the gut can send signals to the brain, and vice versa.
Studies have shown that there is a link between gut health and mental health, with disruptions to the gut microbiome potentially contributing to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are often referred to as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria. These microorganisms are similar to the ones that naturally reside in the gut, and their consumption is thought to help balance and improve the gut microbiome.
Probiotics can be found in a range of foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in supplement form.
Research on Probiotics and Anxiety and Stress
While there is still much research to be done in this area, several studies have indicated that probiotics may have a positive impact on anxiety and stress levels.
For example, a 2017 study published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology found that supplementing with a specific strain of probiotic called Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 was effective in reducing anxiety and improving mood in participants with irritable bowel syndrome.
A 2018 study published in the journal Gut Microbes suggested that probiotics could have an impact on stress response. In the study, participants who received a probiotic supplement containing Bifidobacterium bifidum W23, Bifidobacterium lactis W52, Lactobacillus acidophilus W22, and Lactobacillus casei W56 experienced a reduction in cortisol levels (a hormone associated with stress) compared to those who received a placebo.
However, it’s worth noting that not all studies have shown a positive effect of probiotics on anxiety and stress. A 2020 meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials found that while probiotics may have a small effect in reducing anxiety, the evidence was not strong enough to draw any firm conclusions.
Conclusion
While the research on the impact of probiotics on anxiety and stress is still in its early stages, there is some evidence to suggest that they may have a positive effect. As probiotics are generally safe and have few side effects, they may be worth considering as a complementary therapy for those experiencing anxiety or stress.
However, as with any health-related intervention, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your routine.
Thanks for reading our blog! We hope you found it helpful.
