Background

The microbiome refers to the diverse population of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes [1]. Recent research has suggested that the microbiome plays a crucial role in many aspects of our health, including mental health. In particular, studies have shown that imbalances in the microbiome can contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and even schizophrenia [2]. This is because the microbiome helps to regulate the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals in the brain that control mood and behavior [3]. Therefore, it's important to maintain a healthy and diverse microbiome by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding antibiotics and other medications that can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut [4]. By taking care of our microbiome, we can support our overall health and potentially reduce the risk of mental health problems.

Click on the button below to look at our findings!

Click me!

Further Research

There is growing evidence to suggest that the microbiome, which refers to the community of microorganisms that inhabit the human body, can have a significant impact on neurological and mental health. Research has shown that the gut-brain axis, which involves communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, is one way in which the microbiome can influence mental health.

Studies have linked alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome to a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder. For example, some research has found that individuals with depression have lower levels of certain types of bacteria in their gut compared to healthy individuals. Other studies have shown that administering probiotics (beneficial bacteria) can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety in some individuals.

The mechanisms by which the microbiome affects mental health are not yet fully understood, but there are several hypotheses. One suggestion is that the microbiome can influence the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play a key role in regulating mood. The microbiome may also affect the immune system and inflammation, which have been implicated in the development of mood disorders.

References

(1) Sender, R., Fuchs, S., & Milo, R. (2016). Revised estimates for the number of human and bacteria cells in the body. PLoS biology, 14(8), e1002533.

(2) Kelly, J. R., Clarke, G., Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2016). Brain-gut-microbiota axis: challenges for translation in psychiatry. Annals of Epidemiology, 26(5), 366-372.

(3) Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: the impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 13(10), 701-712.

(4) Mayer, E. A., Knight, R., Mazmanian, S. K., Cryan, J. F., & Tillisch, K. (2014). Gut microbes and the brain: paradigm shift in neuroscience. Journal of Neuroscience, 34(46), 15490-15496.