The gut brain axis, effect of dietary changes and probiotics supplement on depression symptoms

Introduction

Depression is a prevalent mental condition that adversely affects the lives of millions globally. Research has examined the correlation between alterations in gut microbiota composition and depression, leading to increasing interest in the possible use of probiotics to restore gut microbiota balance and enhance mental health outcomes.

Aim

Our aim is to examine the impact of probiotic supplementation on depression in healthy people. By assessing the impact of non-pharmacological therapies aimed at the gut-brain axis, we aspire to contribute to the advancement of accessible and efficacious treatments for depression.

Methods

We assessed socioeconomic status and depression score at baseline in a randomized controlled experiment of healthy people. We then randomly allocated individuals to the intervention group, which got probiotic supplements and health information regarding probiotic-rich diets, or the control group, which received their regular diet. At the end of 12 weeks, we repeated the same measurements.

Results

The study indicated a notable enhancement in depression levels within the intervention group. The median depression score declined from 8 (IQR: 6–9) prior to the intervention to 3 (IQR: 3–5) following the intervention, indicating a 62.5 % enhancement. The control group had a marginal deterioration in depression ratings within the same timeframe, with the median score rising from 8 (IQR: 6–9) to 8.5 (IQR: 7–10), indicating a 6.25 % drop.

Conclusions

Probiotics exert a beneficial influence on both the occurrence and intensity of depression symptoms in healthy people, greatly alleviating these symptoms.