In a recently published study, researchers have discovered that eating a diet high in probiotics that promotes gut and intestinal health can have a profound impact on mental health states. While probiotic foods are being promoted for gastrointestinal health, their influence on depression, anxiety and stress levels suggests a direct correlation between what we eat and our emotional and mental health.
Gut Bacteria Directly Effects Your Systemic Health
Proponents of probiotic foods have long believed that eating foods such as yogurt and fermented foods helps overall health. Since our digestive systems need to maintain healthy bacteria, these foods help our systems stay in balance because they support needed intestinal flora.
For people who do not eat healthy diets, poor gut health can result in many uncomfortable and serious health symptoms. Diarrhea, constipation, gas and intestinal bloating are just a few of the symptoms of an unhealthy intestinal system. However, researchers are now finding that the gut influences many other aspects of health beyond digestion. For example, the immune system is largely located in the gut. Immune system conditions such as lupus, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis have all been linked to poor immune system response.
Researchers are now finding that a diet high in probiotic foods also influences brain functioning and mental health states. Probiotic foods decrease the production of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. Additionally, neurochemicals that influence depression and anxiety are impacted in a positive way when probiotic foods are added to a diet. This research suggests exciting potential treatment options that can be developed for treating these conditions as alternatives to antidepressant medications.
The importance of eating foods that promote gut health is becoming more and more clear. Probiotic foods, such as yogurt, kefir and fermented foods, can be an excellent way to promote healthy levels of necessary and critical bacteria in your digestive system. A healthy gut can improve your immune system, reduce inflammation and improve your overall feelings of health and vitality.
– The Alternative Daily