Gut Health Linked to Anxiety Relief: Probiotics Show Promise, Review Finds - Video

A recent review in Nutrients suggests a potential connection between gut health and anxiety disorders, highlighting how altered gut microbiota may contribute to anxiety symptoms. Researchers, led by Kamil N., found that individuals with anxiety often have reduced microbial diversity and lower levels of beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are essential for both gut and

brain health.

The gut-brain axis, a complex communication network between the gastrointestinal system and the brain, plays a crucial role in mental well-being. Microbial imbalances in the gut can interfere with this communication, potentially leading to psychiatric conditions like anxiety. The review examined studies on PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Google Scholar to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and anxiety, as well as the potential benefits of probiotics.

Findings from the review include decreased microbial diversity in people with anxiety disorders, indicating an imbalance in gut flora, and lower levels of SCFA-producing bacteria, which are important for regulating inflammation and neurotransmitter production—both crucial for mental health.

Anxiety patients tend to have fewer of these bacteria. The review also found that probiotics, particularly those from the Lactobacillus genus, show promise in alleviating anxiety by restoring gut microbiota balance, impacting neurotransmitter levels, and reducing inflammation.

As the review notes, “The gut microbiota influences neurotransmitter synthesis and inflammatory pathways, both of which play key roles in anxiety regulation.” In conclusion, gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut bacteria—appears to be closely linked with anxiety disorders. Probiotic interventions, especially involving Lactobacillus, offer a promising avenue for alleviating symptoms and improving mental health. However, further research is needed to refine these therapies and fully understand their effects.

Reference: Nikel, K., Stojko, M., Smolarczyk, J., & Piegza, M. (2025). The Impact of Gut Microbiota on the Development of Anxiety Symptoms—A Narrative Review. Nutrients, 17(6), 933.https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17060933