Psychobiotics – Mood supportive probiotics?

Have you heard about psychobiotics yet? This is an emerging topic in the gut-brain connection world that’s just beginning to be explored. Watch this space though, it will only continue to grow in the next 5-10 years. Psychobiotics Although there are several probiotic strains that fall into the category of “psychobiotics” or mood supportive probiotics, there are two that are more frequently referenced in this space. They are Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175. Quick Note on Probiotic Strains  Also, a quick side note on these strains. The whole name (yes even the numbers after) matters when discussing probiotics. You’ve likely heard me say this before. But just to reiterate- Bifidobacterium longum for example has many different strain types and R0175 is the strain studied for mood. Some of the other Bifidobacterium longum strains do have benefit but not the same benefits I’m discussing. Here is What Researchers Found Using the Probiotic Strains Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 & Bifidobacterium longum R0175:Psychobiotic Studies vs. MedicationsThere have been some studies that compared these probiotic strains to medications. In one study, the strains were compared with Valium (also known as diazepam) a drug well known for it’s calming affects. In this rat study, they were given either […]