Mental Health
Research has identified specific probiotic strains, sometimes called psychobiotics, that positively impact brain function, mood, and sleep. These strains act by modulating the gut-brain axis, influencing neurotransmitter production, inflammation, and the stress response. Specific microbes such as L rhamnosus (JB-1) regulate GABA receptor expression in the brain that reduces anxiety and depression while promoting relaxation, emotional stability and sleep. It also modulates cortisol levels and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing the body’s stress response.
Many additional strains stimulate neurotransmitter production of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, directly influencing mood and sleep. Friendly microbes manage the HPA Axis Regulation which lowers cortisol levels, reducing the stress response and promoting relaxation. Probiotics modulate inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α), which play a role in depression and anxiety while promoting relaxation and stability.
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain, which involves neural, hormonal, and immune pathways. The vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body, plays a central role in transmitting signals between the gut and the brain. The Vagus nerve sends sensory information from the gut to the brain, such as the presence of nutrients, microbiota composition, and inflammation. Signals from the brain to the gut influence digestion, motility, and secretion of gut hormones. Some probiotic strains enhance Vagus nerve signaling, promote mood regulation, stress resilience, better cognitive function, regulate breathing and heart rate and stimulate peristalsis and gastrointestinal secretions. Adequate nutrition along with a healthy microbiome garden is essential to maintaining mental health. By combining specific strains of psychobiotics along with a healthy dietary plan, I can support you in fostering a balanced gut microbiome essential for mental health.