The Science Behind How Probiotics Boost Your Mood and Energy levels
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can be found in certain foods or supplements. Most people think of probiotics as beneficial for the digestive system, but research shows that they can also have a powerful impact on mood and energy levels.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when ingested, can confer health benefits to the host. They are most commonly known for the role they play in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. This is important because the gut is responsible for a variety of bodily functions such as digestion, immune system regulation, and hormone production. When the gut microbiome is not in balance, it can lead to a wide range of health problems.
Probiotics are found in certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. They can also be taken in supplement form. The most common types of probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. These strains have been shown to have the most health benefits.
How Do Probiotics Impact Mood?
The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” because of its close relationship with the central nervous system. The gut is home to millions of nerve cells that communicate with the brain through the nervous system. This communication is known as the gut-brain axis and it plays a key role in regulating emotions and mood.
Research has shown that probiotics can have a positive impact on mood by modulating the gut-brain axis. Studies have found that people who take probiotic supplements experience lower levels of anxiety and depression. Probiotics may also be beneficial for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition that often co-occurs with depression and anxiety.
How Do Probiotics Impact Energy Levels?
Probiotics may also have a positive impact on energy levels. The gut microbiome plays an important role in energy metabolism, and an imbalance in the gut can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels. Research has shown that probiotics can help to restore balance in the gut microbiome, which may lead to increased energy levels.
One study found that people who took a probiotic supplement for four weeks experienced a significant improvement in their energy levels compared to those who did not take the supplement. Another study found that probiotics improved exercise performance in athletes.
Conclusion
Probiotics are a powerful tool for improving overall health and well-being. Not only do they play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, but they can also have a positive impact on mood and energy levels. If you’re looking to boost your mood and energy levels, consider adding probiotics to your diet in the form of food or supplements.
