The Surprising Way Probiotics Can Improve Your Mental Health
You may have heard of probiotics, the good bacteria that provide numerous benefits to your digestive system, but did you know that probiotics can also improve your mental health? It may sound surprising, but research over the past few years has shown a strong link between the health of your gut microbiome and the health of your brain.
Here’s how:
Probiotics Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Researchers have found that the microorganisms in our gut can communicate with the brain through the gut-brain axis, a system of neural and hormonal pathways. When these microorganisms are imbalanced, it can lead to anxiety and depression.
Studies on animals have shown that consuming probiotics can reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body and improve behavior in stressful situations. Similarly, human studies have found that taking probiotics can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with major depressive disorder.
Probiotics Can Improve Cognitive Function
Research has also shown that probiotics can improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. One study found that elderly individuals who took a daily probiotic supplement for 12 weeks had improved cognitive performance compared to those who took a placebo.
Additionally, probiotics have been shown to increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for regulating mood and behavior, such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Probiotics Can Help with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Some studies have found that individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have an imbalanced gut microbiome, which can contribute to gastrointestinal problems and behavioral symptoms. However, research has also shown that probiotics can improve the symptoms of ASD.
One study found that children with ASD who took a probiotic supplement for eight weeks had improved behavior and communication compared to those who took a placebo. Another study found that a probiotic supplement improved gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with ASD.
Choosing the Right Probiotics for Mental Health
If you’re interested in taking probiotics for mental health benefits, it’s important to choose the right strains. Not all probiotics are created equal, and some strains may be more effective than others for specific conditions.
One strain that has been specifically studied for its mental health benefits is Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG). This strain has been found to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals with major depressive disorder.
Another strain that has been studied for its cognitive benefits is Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum (B. longum). This combination has been found to improve cognitive performance in elderly individuals.
The Bottom Line
Probiotics have numerous benefits for both your digestive and mental health. If you’re interested in taking probiotics for their mental health benefits, it’s important to choose the right strains and talk to your healthcare provider first.
Additionally, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your gut microbiome and overall mental health. Eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods and getting regular exercise can go a long way in supporting your brain-gut connection.
Overall, probiotics may be an unexpected yet effective way to improve your mental health. So why not give them a try?
