Probiotics may be the key to treating depression
Antidepressants are typically the initial treatment option for individuals with severe depressive disorder. However, 15 to 30 percent of depressed individuals do not respond to these medications.
We know that the human body contains trillions of microorganisms, the majority of which reside in the gut; that these microorganisms affect digestion, metabolism, and inflammation; and that the brain and digestive system communicate via neural and hormonal signals, collectively known as the gut-brain axis.
Probiotic supplementation may be an effective treatment for altering interactions between the intestine and brain.
The beneficial physical effects of a healthy intestinal microbiome can extend to mental health.
By enhancing and redistributing microbiota species, maintaining intestinal barrier integrity, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, probiotic supplements may alleviate symptoms of MDD. These advantages may extend to alterations in behavior, mood, sleep, appetite, and cognition, thereby enhancing mental health as a whole.
Moreover, not all probiotics are identical. Different species and strains are likely to have different effects on the organism.
People can integrate numerous probiotic-rich foods into their diets for improved gut health.
Yogurt is one of the most widely consumed dairy and non-dairy sources of probiotics. Yogurt, which is widely available commercially, is a simple and convenient method to incorporate probiotics into your diet.
Other dairy products: Other common sources of probiotics include cultured buttermilk, cheese, and fermented dairy products like kefir.
Non-dairy alternatives: Probiotic-rich non-dairy alternatives include miso, tempeh, sauerkraut, kimchi, natto, and relishes. Additionally, fermented cereals, legumes, maize, pearl millet, and sorghum may contain probiotic strains.
Kombucha is a popular probiotic-rich beverage prepared by fermenting tea with yeast and bacteria. Other non-dairy fermented beverages, such as coconut kefir, are gaining popularity.
資料來源：Rita Ponce (2023), “Probiotics may be the key to treating depression”. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/probiotic-supplements-may-help-with-depression.