to illustrate Share 2K +1 8 Pin 409 Stumble Reddit Shares 2K Microbiota is classified as an ecological community of microorganisms that share a specific host. Within the human body it is estimated that there are trillions of microorganisms, accounting for approximately 1% to 3% of total body mass; equating to an average net weight of around 3 lbs. Though scientists these days are attempting to elucidate the importance of specific microorganisms and combinations within the human body, research in this field is relatively complex. Additionally, compared to other areas of health research, the human microbiota particularly within the gut never received as much attention as it may have warranted; hence the reason it is now commonly referenced as the forgotten organ. It wasn t until the late 1990s that scientists began ambitiously investigating the implications of gut bacteria on immune function. From the 1990s to present day, researchers have managed to unravel links between gut bacteria and numerous conditions including: arthritis, cancer, diabetes, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and obesity. Though we know that the gut microbiota mediates propensity to develop deleterious general health conditions, there s increasing evidence that it may affect a person s psychological state (e.g. mood, anxiety level, etc.). Abnormally high concentrations of specific microorganisms in the gut are now linked to major depression, whereas others are associated with better moods. This has lead many experts to speculate that supplementation with single and/or multi-strain probiotics may attenuate symptoms of depression and anxiety, while simultaneously improving general health. Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16819463 10 Best Probiotics for Depression & Anxiety: Bacterial Strains Included below are 10 strains of probiotics supported by science to improve depression and anxiety. Keep in mind that not all of these strains have been clinically evaluated in humans many have only been assessed in animal models (e.g. rats/mice). For this reason, we cannot automatically assume that they will prove efficacious among humans, particularly those with severe depression and/or anxiety. Moreover, until further research is conducted, no probiotic should be regarded as a replacement for scientifically-supported, first-line antidepressants and anxiolytics. Bifidobacterium Longum This is a Gram-positive, catalase-negative, rod-shaped bacterium found in the GI tract of humans. It is one of 32 species associated with the Bifidobacterium genus and implicated in many processes within the human body. Specifically, Bifidobacterium longum inhibits growth of pathogenic species and maintains normative function of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that it may decrease lactose intolerance, prevent diarrhea, attenuate food allergies, and have an antioxidant effect. Other research indicates that Bifidobacterium longum may lower cholesterol, reduce tumor growth, and may decrease likelihood of certain cancers (e.g. colorectal). In addition to evidence suggesting that Bifidobacterium longum improves a person s general health, there s research indicating that it may be beneficial for mental health. Particularly, research in animal models shows that Bifidobacterium longum significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety. It accomplishes this in a number of ways, but is believed to alter neural function via its action upon the vagal nerve. Bifidobacterium longum mediates vagal tone and as a result, reduces symptoms of anxiety in mice. Its effect upon vagal function was pinpointed by researchers who removed the vagus nerve (via a vagotomy) from mice. Mice without the vagus nerve experienced no changes in anxiety following administration of Bifidobacterium longum. It is logical to assume that similar gut-vagal-brain innervations occur in humans administered this particular probiotic strain. The evidence is not limited to support the therapeutic effects of Bifidobacterium longum is not confined to a standalone mouse study. Another study involved administration of Bifidobacterium longum to rats following parasitic infection with Trichuris muris. Trichuris muris altered neurophysiological function in such a way that important biomarkers such as hippocampal BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) were nearly depleted. Abnormally low BDNF is associated with a multitude of neuropsychiatric conditions, perhaps most prominently, major depression. Upon administration of Bifidobacterium longum after parasitic infection, rats exhibited significant increases in BDNF this is associated with an antidepressant response. Perhaps administration of this probiotic strain in humans may be beneficial for mood while simultaneously reducing anxiety. Fortunately, research of Bifidobacterium longum was also conducted in human volunteers. A two-part study assessed the effect of Bifidobacterium longum when administered with Lactobacillus helveticus in both animal models and humans. The first part of the study with the animal models (rats) demonstrated that the combination of Bifidobacterium longum with Lactobacillus helveticus significantly reduced anxiety (as evidenced by a defensive burying test). The second part of the study with human participants discovered that the concurrent Bifidobacterium longum with Lactobacillus helveticus improved scores on numerous clinical measures. Measures of significant improvement included: Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-90), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Coping Checklist (CCL), and urinary free cortisol (UFC). It was concluded that the combination of these probiotics exhibit anxiolytic and therapeutic effects conducive to psychological health. However, it remains unclear as to whether Bifidobacterium longum necessitates the presence of Lactobacillus helveticus for a clinically significant anxiolytic or antidepressant effect in humans. Further research of this strain in animal models was published in 2014 by Savignac et al. who assessed the effects of Bifidobacterium longum compared to Celexa (a pharmaceutical SSRI ) among BALB/c mice. The BALB/c mice were administered Bifidobacterium longum (strain) 1714, Celexa, another Bifidobacterium strain, or a placebo each for a duration of 6 weeks. Behavioral measures were conducted in a stress-induced hyperthermia test, marble burying task, elevated plus maze, open field assessment, tail suspension test, and forced swim test. Physiological markers of stress were also collected from each of the mice. Results indicated that Bifidobacterium longum 1714 (and the other strain) and Celexa reduced anxiety on the marble burying test. However, only Bifidobacterium longum 1714 decreased stress-induced hyperthermia and facilitated an antidepressant response on the tai suspension test. This evidence supports the idea that Bifidobacterium longum 1714 decreases anxiety and may improve mood among anxious animal models. Another study published by Savignac et al. (2015) documented the ability of Bifidobacterium longum to modulate cognitive processes among BALB/c mice with anxiety. Adult BALB/c mice were fed Bifidobacterium longum 1714, another probiotic strain (B. breve 1205) or a control (vehicle treatment) for 11 weeks. After 4 weeks of administration, assessments were conducted to evaluate cognitive function, locomotor activity, and visceral pain. Mice administered Bifidobacterium longum 1714 exhibited quicker object recognition and made fewer errors within a Barnes maze than mice receiving other interventions. From this study, researchers were able to conclude that not all Bifidobacterium subspecies elicit equal neurophysiological effects. Moreover, administration of Bifidobacterium longum 1714 (in particular) is associated with cognitive enhancement among mice with anxiety. From the culmination of research assessing the neurophysiologic effects of Bifidobacterium longum, we can conclude that it may improve symptoms of depression and anxiety among humans. Additionally, individuals with anxiety (and possibly those without) may derive additional cognitive enhancement from the Bifidobacterium longum 1714 strain. If your goal is to reduce anxiety and depression via modifying your gut, you may want to consider regular supplementation with Bifidobacterium longum. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20600016/ Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20974015/ Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25251188 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25794930 Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a Gram-positive, anaerobic rod that commonly appears in chains. Initially it was thought to be a member of the Lactobacillus casei species, but additional investigation would reveal its status as a standalone species. Preliminary research has documented its therapeutic efficacy for a variety of conditions including: preventing peanut allergies, reducing diarrhea, treating dermatitis, genital tract infections, and obesity. In animal models, Lactobacillus rhamnosus has been shown to attenuate symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study published in 2011 specifically documented the effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus upon neurotransmitter systems within the central nervous system. The study discovered that chronic administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus to mice altered the neurotransmission of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), an important inhibitory neurotransmitter. They noted that GABA biomarkers were upregulated in certain regions and downregulated in others, indicative of significant neural changes resulting from the probiotic. Regions in which GABAergic transmission was modified following Lactobacillus rhamnosus ingestion included the: amygdala, cingulate, hippocampus, locus coeruleus, and prefrontal cortex. Like the aforementioned Bifidobacterium longum strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus exerted its effect upon the brain through the vagal nerve. This specifically lead to modified neurotransmission of GABA, which was ultimately associated with decreased anxiety and depression in the animal models. Whether similar antidepressant and anxiolytic effects can be attained by chronic administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus in humans isn t known. That said, the preliminary evidence suggests that it is likely to provide some sort of benefit. It should be noted that in a small percentage of the population, probiotic therapy with Lactobacillus rhamnosus has lead to sepsis, a condition characterized by tissue and organ injuries resulting from the body s innate response to infectious pathogens. While sepsis only occurs in a small percentage of the population, particularly those with compromised immune function, it should be noted as a potential adverse reaction. That said, the potential antidepressant and anxiolytic benefits of Lactobacillus rhamnosus among non-immunocompromised populations likely outweigh the small risk of sepsis. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21876150/ Lactobacillus Helveticus Lactobacillus helveticus is a bacterium named after Helvetia, a Latin reference to the national female goddess of Switzerland. This particular bacterium is rod-shaped, belongs to the genus Lactobacillus, and facilitates production of lactic-acid. It is perhaps most well-known for being utilized to enhance the production of cheeses (e.g. Swiss, Cheddar, Parmesean, etc.) by inhibiting bitter taste and optimizing flavors. Preliminary research of Lactobacillus helveticus suggests that it may reduce blood pressure with a similar mechanism to ACE inhibitors. Additionally, this appears to be yet another strain of bacteria that, when supplemented as a probiotic, alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety. One study investigated the effect of Lactobacillus helveticus administration to animal models exhibiting hyperammonemia. Hyperammonemia or excessive ammonia within the bloodstream is considered dangerous in that it can inflict severe brain damage and ultimately cause death. Animal models were made hyperammonemic via injections of ammonium acetate for 4-weeks. This caused significant neuroinflammation and altered neurotransmission, particularly of serotonin. Thereafter, they treated the rats with the probiotic Lactobacillus helveticus (strain NS8). Results indicated that the rats treated with Lactobacillus helveticus experienced significant changes in biomarkers. More specifically, the Lactobacillus helveticus NS8 strain decreased neuroinflammation, reduced serotonin metabolism, decreased anxiety, and restored cognitive function. A second study published in 2013 assessed the interaction between diet, gut microbiota, and genetics of mice. Wild-type (WT) and IL-10 deficient mice were placed on either: a standard mouse feed vs. Western-style diet (33% fat and 49% carbs) plus Lactobacillus helveticus probiotics for 21 days. Throughout the study, researchers collected biomarker data and measured anxiety along with spatial memory function. Thereafter, they tested microorganism content within fecal excrement of the mice to determine how quantities of microorganisms affected various measures. Results indicated that all mice (regardless of whether WT or IL-10) eating the Western diet had weight gain along with anxiety and increased cytokine expression (signifying inflammation). It appeared as though Lactobacillus helveticus administration attenuated anxiety and memory deficits associated with Western diet consumption and also reduced anxiety among WT mice on a standard mouse feed diet. Mice with less inflammation responded better to the probiotic than those with high inflammation. Nonetheless, this provides evidence to support the therapeutic potential of Lactobacillus helveticus in reducing anxiety and correcting cognitive deficits. Currently, it is unclear as to what the effects of Lactobacillus helveticus are in humans, particularly healthy ones. That said, Lactobacillus helveticus may reduce inflammation and mediate serotonergic transmission possibly eliciting an anxiolytic and/or antidepressant response. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24554471 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23566632 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23181058 Lactobacillus Plantarum Lactobacillus plantarum is a bacterium that was first isolated from human saliva and is ubiquitous in fermented foods such as: sauerkraut, pickles, and kimchi. It is a member of the Lactobacillus species and may have numerous therapeutic effects in humans. Preliminary evidence suggests that it may decrease soy allergies, attenuate adverse viral effects of HIV, and reduce inflammatory biomarkers throughout the body. A study suggests that Lactobacillus plantarum is capable of enhancing memory, possibly acting as a nootropic and/or neuroprotective agent . This study involved assessing the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum C29 in a sample of 344 aged Fischer rats. Researchers administered each of the probiotic strains orally once per day, 6/7 days per week, for a total of 8 weeks. Results indicated that Lactobacillus plantarum C29 strains restored age-reduced cognitive function, minimized escape latency time (on task), and increased swimming times compared to a control group. Biomarkers had been altered among the rats receiving Lactobacillus plantarum as well, namely: doublecortin (DCX), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) activation. Lactobacillus plantarum also altered expression of: p16, cyclooxygenase-2, mTOR, NF-kappa-beta, Akt, and nitric oxide synthase. It is understood that deficits in BDNF are associated with major depression, as are upregulated inflammatory biomarkers. Lactobacillus plantarum appears to increase BDNF and decrease inflammation, thereby improving neuropsychiatric function in animal models. While this specific strain hasn t been evaluated in humans, it may confer similar benefits to those observed in the trial with aged rats. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25598393 Bifidobacterium Animalis Bifidobacterium animalis is a bacterium localized principally within the large intestines of humans with Gram-positive, anaerobic, and rod-shaped features. This probiotic is commonly found within dairy products, but also appears within an array of foods and dietary supplements. Though the health benefits of Bifidobacterium animalis aren t clear, initial studies suggest it may reduce bloating and intestinal discomfort associated with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). However, the thereapeutic potential of Bifidobacterium animalis is not limited to those with IBS. It appears as though this species acts as an antioxidant by reducing oxidative stress, while simultaneously decreasing enzymatic activity of monoamine oxidase. Assuming it is an effective antioxidant, it may inhibit and/or reduce neuroinflammation resulting from heightened oxidative stress. The reduction in neuroinflammation has potential to decrease likelihood of anxiety, depression, and possibly interfere with the pathogenesis of certain diseases. What s equally exciting as the antioxidative properties associated with Bifidobacterium animalis is its ability to inhibit activity of MAO (monoamine oxidase). Inhibition of MAO allows neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine) to remain in the synaptic cleft for a longer duration without being scavenged by the monoamine oxidase enzyme. As a result, this improves neuronal signaling and possibly the user s mood and/or anxiety. The potency of Bifidobacterium animalis MAO inhibition is unclear, however, an entire class of antidepressants (the MAOIs ) function with this exact mechanism. A 2011 study assessed the activity of Bifidobacterium animalis (strain 01) in vitro and in vivo among aging mice. Results from this study indicated that Bifidobacterium animalis scavenged free radicals and decreased MAO activity. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21132298 Lactobacillus Casei Lactobacillus casei is a species of bacterium that inhabits the intestine and oral mucosa of humans. The presence of Lactobacillus casei is considered complementary and conducive to the growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus, another healthy bacterium. Industrially, Lactobacillus casei is often utilized to aid in the production of dairy products such as cheeses. Medically, some evidence indicates that Lactobacillus casei strains such as Shirota may inhibit Helicobacter pylori growth to a small extent. Certain strains of Lactobacillus casei may be useful as an intervention for pathogenic bacterial diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Usage of Lactobacillus casei along with various other healthy bacteria (in the form of a multistrain probiotic) has been successful in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) and Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs). A study published in 2009 by Rao et al. investigated the Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) strain as an intervention for chronic fatigue syndrome. Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome are understood to exhibit abnormal densities of microorganisms within the gut flora and commonly experience significant anxiety. For this reason, researchers recruited 39 individuals diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and organized a study to administer either: LcS (Lactobacillus casei Shirota) with 8 billion colony forming units (CFUs) or a placebo once per day for 2 months. Stool samples were collected from patients prior to commencement and following the study. Neuropsychiatric states were assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) pre- and post-study. Results indicated that there were significant differences in stool bacteria among those receiving the probiotic compared to those taking the placebo. Those who had received the probiotic exhibited significant increases in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria bacteria within excrement compared to the placebo controls. Additionally, there were significant changes on BAI (Beck Anxiety Inventory) scores among those receiving the Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) strains compared to the controls. Researchers concluded that administration of Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) appears to improve colonic health and symptoms of anxiety among those with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) administration elevated concentrations of Bifidobacteria, which may have contributed largely to the therapeutic effects. Bifidobacteria are reportedly capable of increasing tryptophan concentrations, as well as modulating serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) turnover in regions implicated in depressive and anxiety disorders. Another study investigated the effects of a milk drink containing Lactobacillus casei compared to a placebo. In this study published by Benton et al. (2007), a total of 132 healthy older adults (average age of 61.8 years) were recruited. A total of 124 adults completed the trail which involved drinking either a probiotic-containing (Lactobacillus casei Shirota) milk or a placebo milk devoid of bacterial cultures for 20 days. Results from the study demonstrated significant improvement in mood among a subset of those receiving the Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) milk. Researchers noted that Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) cultures appeared to improve mood among those only with a low/depressive mood at baseline. This suggests that Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) may improve mood among those with subclinical depression, but may not further enhance mood among those with an already-good mood. It is plausible that those with an already-good mood may already have adequate Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) within their gut, whereas those with poorer moods may have had less Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) and ultimately benefitted. Studies of Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) indicate that it may be more effective for anxiety than depression, but still could improve day-to-day mood after 20 days of administration. Whether it s an effective intervention for cases of severe anxiety and depression is unclear. However, it should be hypothesized that Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) may serve as an effective adjunct for those who fail to attain sufficient benefit from first-line treatments. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19338686/ Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17151594 Bifidobacterium Infantis Technically, Bifidobacterium infantis is a subspecies of Bifidobacterium longum, hence the reason most experts simply refer to it as Bifidobacterium longum. However, scientific reports have documented therapeutic effects of this particular subspecies and have actually tested it against parent species Bifidobacterium longum. The Bifidobacterium infantis strain is known for facilitating the production of acetic acid, lactic acid, and formic acid. A study published by Desbonnet et al. (2008) investigated the antidepressant properties of Bifidobacterium infantis on Sprague-Dawley rats. They noted that lack of beneficial gut bacteria may alter monoaminergic activity, alter the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), and lead to onset of depression. To determine efficacy of Bifidobacterium infantis as an antidepressant, they chronically administered it to the rats for 14 days while simultaneously assessed monoaminergic activity, neuroendocrine responses, and immune function. Results indicated that Bifidobacterium infantis has zero effect on swim behaviors of the rats, but it attenuated detrimental biomarkers such as TNF-alpha, IL-6 cytokines, and IFN-gamma. It also significantly bolstered concentrations of tryptophan (the amino acid precursor to serotonin), as well as kynurenic acid (a metabolic byproduct of tryptophan). This suggests that Bifidobacterium infantis may increase serotonin production and/or concentrations. Of additional interest to researchers was the fact that Bifidobacterium infantis decreased 5-HIAA (serotonin metabolites) in the prefrontal cortex and decreased DOPAC (dopamine metabolites) in the amygdaloid cortex. Researchers concluded that Bifidobacterium infantis may promote antidepressant effects as a result of monoamine (serotonin and dopamine) modulation, as well as its anti-inflammatory effect. That said, the study was unable to conclude whether this strain of probiotics legitimately improves mood. Fortunately, a follow-up study was published in 2010 by the same researcher Desbonnet et al. to investigate the effect of Bifidobacterium infantis administration on mood. For this study, researchers used a rat maternal separation (MS) model that is thought to accurately portray a combination of stress-related mood and gastrointestinal disorders. The maternally-separated rats were administered either Bifidobacterium infantis OR Celexa. Thereafter, they engaged in a forced swim test (FST) to determine their level of motivation. Researchers collected measures such as: cytokine levels, central monoamine concentrations, and activation of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis). The maternal separation decreased swim behaviors and increased likelihood of immobility on the forced swim test (FST). It also decreased levels of norepinephrine in the brain, stimulated release of peripheral IL-6 (interleukin), and increased amygdala corticotrophin-releasing factor (a neuropeptide implicated in stress responses). Administration of Bifidobacterium infantis reversed behavioral abnormalities (e.g. swim behaviors and FST immobility), restored concentrations of norepinephrine in the brain, and attenuated immune dysfunction associated with the maternal separation. Researchers concluded that Bifidobacterium infantis is capable of significantly altering neural function. Although Bifidobacterium infantis hasn t been tested in humans, preliminary evidence suggests that it may improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and combat neural changes associated with stress. Its parent species Bifidobacterium longum is already known to possess antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. Those experiencing stress-related depression may benefit from administration of Bifidobacterium infantis. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18456279 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20696216 Bifidobacterium Breve Bifidobacterium breve is non-motile, anaerobic, and rod-shaped with a cactus-like appearance. It is thought to prevent the growth of candida albicans, an opportunistic fungus that is associated with the onset of oral and genital yeast infections and simultaneously inhibits the proliferation of disconcerting bacteria such as E. coli. Its inclination to compete with other potentially harmful bacteria makes Bifidobacterium breve relatively unique in its mechanism of action. Research has linked sufficient Bifidobacterium breve in the gut to healthy digestive function. Those with depleted Bifidobacterium breve are more likely to develop allergies, diarrhea, flatulence, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A study published in 2004 by Li et al. discovered that supplementation with Bifidobacterium breve improves intestinal health among low birth weight infants. Lack of Bifidobacterium breve supplementation results in abnormal gut flora development, which may yield numerous deleterious health consequences potentially for the entire lifetime of the infant. In any regard, Bifidobacterium breve may also provide benefit to individuals with neuropsychiatric anxiety disorders. A study conducted by Savignac et al. (2014) documented the effects of Bifidobacterium breve 1205 (a specific strain) to the antidepressant Celexa, as well as another Bifidobacterium strain, and a vehicle (control) treatment. In the results, it was noted that Bifidobacterium breve 1205 was the only intervention that reduced anxiety in the elevated plus maze. A follow-up study published by the same researcher Savignac et al. (2015) documented the effect of Bifidobacterium breve 1205 administration in anxious mice over an 11-week term. It was compared to a vehicle intervention (control) and another Bifidobacterium strain. Results indicated that the anxious mice receiving the Bifidobacterium breve 1205 strain were able to discriminate faster than the control group in an object recognition test. This indicates that Bifidobacterium breve 1205 may enhance cognitive function among those with anxiety and possibly even those without. Although Bifidobacterium breve may not be as effective as Bifidobacterium longum for alleviation of anxiety and depression, clinical evaluation in humans with anxiety is warranted. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26445348 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15491374 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25251188 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25794930 Lactobacillus Acidophilus Lactobacillus acidophilus a Gram-positive, microaerophilic bacterium that is perhaps the most popular of all bacteria in probiotic formulations. Lactobacillus acidophilus is found within the gastrointestinal tract and oral mucosa of humans and certain strains are understood to elicit probiotic effects. There is significant evidence to support the administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus for the treatment of diarrhea, SIBO (small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth), and vaginal infections. It is also thought to improve immune function, inhibit growth of cancer cells, and reduce inflammation. A study conducted by Rousseaux et al. (2007) assessed the effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus on the gut of animal models. This study documented that a specific strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus known as NCFM upregulated peripheral mu-opioid receptors and cannabinoid receptors in epithelial cells within the intestine. Whether this correlated to mood improvements and/or anxiety reductions is unknown. However, research shows that animal models who overexpress the CB2 receptor are resistant to symptoms of depression. Hypothetically, it could be that Lactobacillus acidophilus upregulates peripheral (and possibly central) CB2 receptors and, as a result, improves mood. It is unclear as to how modulation of peripheral (or central) mu-opioid receptor densities affects mood of humans. Assuming the combined cannabinoid and mu-opioid receptor modulation that occurs following administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM in mice is similar in humans, it may decrease depression, anxiety, and/or pain. That said, the mood enhancing properties of specific Lactobacillus acidophilus strains warrant investigation. A study published by Campana et al. (2012) highlighted the fact that Lactobacillus acidophilus is capable of blunting the growth of the pathogenic Campylobacter jejuni bacteria. Campylobacter jejuni is capable of causing anxiety in mice and is associated with unfavorable gut health in humans. The strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus known as ATCC 4356 significantly decreased growth of Campylobacter jejuni and displaced its adhesion to cells. It could be hypothesized that among those with abnormally high concentrations of Campylobacter jejuni, an anxiolytic benefit may be attained following administration of specific Lactobacillus acidophilus strains. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17159985/ Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20649579 Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22271268/ Trans-Galactooligosaccharides (TOS) Transgalactooligosaccharide is a prebiotic of the galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) family generated through enzymatic conversion of lactose. It is a non-digestible food ingredient, that when administered, is thought to stimulate the growth of health-conducive bacteria within the body. Galacto-oligosaccharides are unique in that they contain glycosidic bonds, allowing them to remain unhydrolyzed throughout the salivary and digestive tract. As transgalactooligosaccharides (TOS) make their way through the intestinal tract, they promote growth of therapeutic bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. Some also speculate that they may interfere with the growth of deleterious bacteria, thereby enhancing immune function, increasing nutrient absorption, and augmenting vitamin synthesis. A study published in 2009 by Silk et al., specifically investigated the effect of transgalactooligosaccharides among individuals with IBS. Researchers speculated that supplementation of transgalactooligosaccharides would improve colonic health of those with IBS compared to a placebo. They organized a crossover trial with 44 patients diagnosed with Rome II positive IBS over a dur prompted
lots of people 10 Best Probiotics For Depression & Anxiety: Gut-Brain Axis Modification lower
EmoticonEmoticon