Probiotics for Mood Support
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can have health benefits when consumed. These bacteria are found in many fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
Probiotics are also available in supplement form and many people choose to supplement, because it allows the opportunity to take specific strains of feel-good bacteria; many of which have been shown to help with mood issues and stress.
Most people take probiotics to help with digestive issues, but emerging research suggests that these gut-dwelling bacteria may also have a powerful impact on mood and mental health.
The Gut-Brain Connection
The gut and the brain are connected via the nervous system, and gut bacteria communicate with the brain through this pathway.
Probiotics may help to improve mood by modulating the gut-brain connection. Some specific strains of bacteria have been shown to influence brain function and mood, and probiotics may help to improve mood by providing these specific strains of bacteria.
Specific Types of Feel Good Bacteria
Mood Issues are not all in our heads, but they could be related to our gut health.
Certain strains of bacteria have been shown to influence brain function and mood. Also, when a microbiome is lacking certain types of bacteria, that has been shown to cause detrimental effects.
For example, B. infantis has been shown to reduce stress-like behaviors in mice, while B. longum has been shown to improve memory and decrease stress levels in rats. While more research is continuing to confirm these findings in humans, the gut-brain connection is an emerging area of interest in the field of psychiatry.
Prebiotics, Another Powerful Gut Supporter
Prebiotics are nondigestible fibers that act as food for probiotics. One particular prebiotic, GOS—the main prebiotic that’s been studied to help with mild mood issues—has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve gut health. So if you’re feeling stressed or moody, it may be worth considering a probiotic with prebiotic.
Both prebiotics and probiotics are important for gut health, but recent research has also shown that prebiotics can have a positive impact on mental health as well. The gut-brain connection is a complex network of nerves and hormones that influence mood and behavior. Prebiotics help to support this connection by providing fuel for the good bacteria in the gut.
Support Your Mood, Naturally
The gut-brain connection is well-documented: what we eat affects our mood and overall health. So it’s no surprise that the opposite is also true: reduce stress and you can improve your gut health. Taking a probiotic for mood support is just one way to support mood naturally. Below are a few more ways:
First, reduce sugar intake. That means avoiding sugary drinks like soda, energy drinks, and even diet drinks. Excess sugar can feed bad bacteria and lead to inflammation.
Second, eat more Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi. These foods help to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Third, get plenty of fiber. Fiber helps to keep things moving smoothly through the digestive system and also provides food for the helpful probiotic bacteria.
Finally, reduce stress. Stress can trigger inflammation and make gut problems worse. So take some time for yourself every day to relax and de-stress.
By following these simple tips, and finding a mood probiotic you love, you can improve gut health and your mood!
