People experiencing symptoms of anxiety commonly say they have a nervous stomach. But more and more medical research has established a link between states of anxiety and depression to more than just gut feelings. A properly functioning gastrointestinal system is also important to the brain’s chemical balance and probiotics are being studied as treatments for both body and mind.
The journal
Psychopharmacology published an Oxford University research paper that claimed to have discovered that “Convincing evidence now exists for a role of the gut microbiota composition in the regulation of the stress hormone corticosterone (cortisol in humans).”
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“Most indications of a ‘microbiota-gut-brain axis’ in humans have come from patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, there is now preliminary evidence for reduced subjective feelings of anxiety and improved aspects of wellbeing after probiotic intake,” the study said.
Prevention magazine identified five categories of probiotic-boosting foods that can promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut and aid in the treatment of anxiety and depression:
1. Fruits and vegetables that contain insulin, such as asparagus, bananas, broccoli, and garlic
2. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and yogurt
3. Proteins like nuts, seeds, beans, and wild-caught salmon
4. Healthy fats from avocados, coconut, and olive oil
5. Antioxidant-rich foods: apples, berries, red wine, dark chocolate, and green tea
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In reports of these scientific studies measuring the effects of probiotics and mood, researchers had relied on the use of supplements to study participants’ susceptibility to anxiety and depression when given probiotics.
While there are many probiotic supplements on the market that could be helpful in the treatment of depression and anxiety, consumers should consult a doctor first before using them.
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