Link Between Mediterranean Diet, Gut Microbiome, and PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric condition often stemming from exposure to traumatic events. While the microbiota-gut-brain axis's role in mental health has garnered attention, a recent study has unveiled a fascinating connection between diet, gut microbiome, and PTSD symptoms.

In an analysis involving 191 individuals participating in a longitudinal cohort study, researchers delved into trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms, gut microbiome data, and dietary habits. The study indicated that higher levels of PTSD symptoms were linked to reduced adherence to the Mediterranean diet pattern, suggesting a potential influence of dietary choices on the severity of PTSD symptoms. This observation raises the possibility of dietary interventions to mitigate PTSD symptoms.

Additionally, the research uncovered that certain gut microbiome species, such as Eubacterium eligens, held promise as protective factors against PTSD. These microbial protectors appeared to be intertwined with the Mediterranean diet's benefits.

Notably, the study delved into the microbial pathways involved in pantothenate and coenzyme A biosynthesis, revealing their potential role as protective elements in PTSD. These pathways were primarily associated with beneficial microbial species like Akkermansia muciniphila.

Ref: Ke, S., Wang, XW., Ratanatharathorn, A. et al. Association of probable post-traumatic stress disorder with dietary pattern and gut microbiome in a cohort of women. Nat. Mental Health 1, 900–913 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44220-023-00145-6