Your Brain on Probiotics: Enhancing Cognitive Function and Mood
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to the human body when consumed in adequate amounts. They are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha, as well as in dietary supplements.
There are many health benefits of probiotics, such as improving digestion, boosting immune function, and reducing inflammation. But did you know that probiotics can also enhance cognitive function and mood?
Probiotics and Cognitive Function
Research has shown that probiotics can positively impact cognitive function by improving memory, attention, and decision-making. One study found that participants who consumed a probiotic-containing milk drink for 4 weeks had improved performance on cognitive tasks compared to those who consumed a placebo drink.
Another study showed that probiotics may improve cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to switch between tasks or ideas. Participants who consumed a probiotic supplement for 4 weeks had better performance on a cognitive flexibility task than those who consumed a placebo.
The exact mechanisms behind how probiotics improve cognitive function are still being studied. It is believed that probiotics can interact with the gut-brain axis, which is the communication system between the gut and the brain. Probiotics may also modulate neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are important for mood and cognition.
Probiotics and Mood
Probiotics can also have a positive impact on mood. One study found that participants who consumed a probiotic-containing yogurt for 3 weeks had less symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to those who consumed a placebo yogurt.
Another study showed that probiotics may improve emotional processing, which is the ability to perceive, understand, and respond to emotions. Participants who consumed a probiotic supplement for 4 weeks had better emotional processing compared to those who consumed a placebo.
Like cognitive function, the exact mechanisms behind how probiotics improve mood are still being studied. It is believed that probiotics can modulate the levels of cytokines, which are involved in the inflammatory response. Inflammation has been linked to depression and other mood disorders.
Which Probiotics are Best?
There are many different strains of probiotics, each with their own unique health benefits. Some strains may be more effective in enhancing cognitive function and mood than others.
One strain that has been studied for its cognitive and mood enhancing properties is Lactobacillus helveticus. This strain has been shown to improve cognitive performance and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Another strain that has been studied is Bifidobacterium longum. This strain has been shown to improve memory and reduce stress and anxiety.
Conclusion
Probiotics are a promising area of research for enhancing cognitive function and mood. While more studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, the current evidence suggests that probiotics may have a positive impact on our brain health.
If you’re interested in trying probiotics for their cognitive and mood enhancing properties, be sure to choose a high-quality supplement or consume fermented foods that contain probiotics. Just be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
