Probiotics’ effects in the treatment of anxiety and depression: A comprehensive review of 2014–2023 clinical trials

Changes in the gut microbiome have the potential to impact cognitive and psychological functions through the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis. Probiotic supplements are believed to exert predominantly positive effects on mental health when consumed in adequate quantities. However, despite considerable investigation, there remains inconsistency in findings regarding the effects of probiotics on anxiety and depression and their associated changes in the microbiome. This study by Merkouris et al. (2024) aims to systematically review the most recent literature from the past decade to determine whether probiotics truly have the ability to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The study’s findings suggest that a majority of recent research points towards the beneficial role of probiotics in managing depression and anxiety. However, there are also notable findings that are less favorable. Considering the potential of probiotics to provide new, individualized treatment options for mood disorders, further focused research within psychiatric populations is warranted. This research should address concerns regarding the precise mechanisms of probiotics, optimal dosage, timing of treatment, and potential variations in outcomes based on the severity of anxiety and depression. [NPID: Probiotics, anxiety, depression, microbiome, gut, microbiota, alterations, review, prebiotics, psychobiotics]

Year: 2024

Reference: Merkouris, E., Mavroudi, T., Miliotas, D., Tsiptsios, D., Serdari, A., Christidi, F., Doskas, T. K., Mueller, C., & Tsamakis, K. (2024). Probiotics’ effects in the treatment of anxiety and depression: A comprehensive review of 2014–2023 clinical trials. In Microorganisms (Vol. 12, Issue 2). https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12020411

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