New Class of Probiotics May Help Fight Depression

Probiotics are widely accepted to help alleviate allergies, treat diarrhea and remedy urogenital infections. The list of benefits goes on, and research is continuing to broaden it. Some scientists are now suggesting that these living bacteria may also help treat depression.

According to an article published by Medical News Today, a group of scientists from Ireland’s University College Cork have defined a new class of probiotics called psychobiotics. These psychobiotics are microorganisms that can help treat psychiatric illness.

There are two ways that this happens. First, they may help normalize behavior and abnormal immune response. These scientists looked at a particular study where this was found to be true with rats suffering from depressive behavior after maternal separation. Second, some psychobiotics can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is notable because inflammation in the body is associated with depression and stress, and alleviating it may help improve one’s mood.

For now, this area of research is in its infancy. There are a few studies with humans that suggest certain probiotics can improve mood and reduce stress, but more research will need to be done in this area.

In the meantime, continue exploring probiotics for your general health. Try adding some yogurt to your diet, or try a probiotic supplement. Check back on this site for more as the study of psychobiotics unfolds.

Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/268859.php#citations

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.