Probiotics and Mental Disorders

 

     Brain disorders such as autism, major depression and anxiety are becoming increasingly common and debilitating. These problems are treated with what are often highly toxic and dangerous drugs. Increasing research suggests that mental disorders may have their root in a disturbed digestive tract. Mental disorders are often characterized by elevated levels of  inflammatory chemicals called cytokines, oxidative stress, poor nutritional status, and overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the small intestine. These problems can decrease the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which is essential for healthy brain functioning. All of these abnormalities are increasingly being shown to be improved by supplying beneficial bacteria such as those found in NeoLife Acidophilus Complex. Who would have thought that the bugs in your belly carry on a conversation with your brain cells? The next time you feel down support gut health with Acidophilus Complex and Aloe.

Reference:

Logan, Alan, and Katzman, Martin, Major depressive disorder: probiotics may be an adjuvant therapy, Medical Hypotheses, 2005;64:533-538.

Cryan, J.F., and O'Mahony, S.M., The microbiome-gut-brain axis: from bowel to behavior, Neurogastroenterol Motil, 2011;23:187-192.