Can probiotics reduce bipolar symptoms?: A systematic review

Background

There is growing evidence suggesting a connection between gut dysbiosis and the development of psychiatric disorders. A number of studies have shown that probiotics contribute to symptom reduction in major depressive disorder, but very few such studies have been conducted on bipolar disorder. The present study is a systematic review of such studies.

Methods

Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines of studies published in the past ten years which involve the use of probiotics in patients with bipolar disorder.

Results

Of 4717 articles screened, 5 were included in this review [n = 193]. Collectively, the studies measured the effects of probiotics on the symptoms of bipolar disorder as well as rehospitalization rates.

Conclusion

Despite the limited number of studies done on this topic, there is evidence that probiotics improve symptoms of bipolar disorder, particularly manic symptoms, with no significant negative effects.