Probiotics and Their Effect on Depression: A Synthesis of Evidence

Main Article Content

Alicia Beuche
Stephanie Smith

Abstract

Depression is a debilitating disorder that is associated with many physical, social, and emotional complications. Traditional treatment of depression focuses on altering the neurochemistry of the brain with the use of antidepressant medications. Hovlever, emerging evidence regarding the interaction between the brain and gut microbiome has opened up new avenues for treatment. Probiotics in particular have been studied for their benefits on gastrointestinal health, but recent studies have investigated their role in improving symptoms of depression, emphasizing a link between the gut and the brain. The studies included in this synthesis of evidence demonstrate that probiotics decrease symptoms of depression, which holds promise for novel therapies in treatment of the disorder.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Article Details

Section
Health & Wellness