Psychobiotics for a healthy gut

What are psychobiotics? 

“Psychobiotics are defined as probiotics that confer mental health benefits to the host when ingested in a particular quantity through interaction with gut bacteria.” 

Specific species of probiotics have a role in depression and mental health, so choosing the correct species is of utmost importance to have a beneficial impact on the gut-brain axis. As with any probiotic supplementation it is also important that these microbial strains are present in sufficient quantities and make it to their destination where they can exert their beneficial effects. When choosing a psychobiotic it is important to consider quality, quantity and species selection to ensure beneficial outcomes.

Probiotic strains in Ceregut™

Ceregut™ contains two very specific species and strains of probiotic that were first isolated more than 32 years ago:  

• Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell^®-52

Lactobacillus helveticus lives in the intestines and is known to have microbial activities against pathogens. Studies have found that this strain is beneficial for management of anxiety and stress.

•  Bifidobacterium longum Rosell^®-175

Bifidobacterium longum stimulates the immune system and promotes microbial balance. It has been found to lower the pH of the intestine to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Research indicates that this strain is beneficial in supporting management of stress and anxiety. 

Both strains have been proven to survive the gastrointestinal tract and exhibit strong adhesion, meaning that they will settle in the digestive tract where they are needed. Ceregut™ is produced by Lallemand Health Solutions, a probiotic manufacturer with 85 years of expertise who have dedicated significant time to understanding the full potential of the human microbiome. The entire production process is carefully monitored by a team of experts so that the quality of the Ceregut™ final product is of the highest standard. 

 

Interaction between psychobiotics and the gut-brain axis

The interaction between psychobiotics and the gut-brain axis consists of a bilateral communication system that enables gut microbes to interact with the brain and the latter with the gut. Gut bacteria influence behaviour and both depression and anxiety symptoms are directly associated with alterations in the microbiota.

Factors affecting the gut-brain axis 

Stress

Stress can induce various disorders with gastrointestinal, physical and psychological symptoms. Probiotics can help regulate or modulate gastrointestinal functions.  

Poor diet

Diet is a major factor in determining the health and composition of the gut microbiome. Diet doesn’t just affect the diversity and amount of the microbial species present; it also influences the metabolic capacity of these microbes. The typical Western diet full of processed, fried and sugar-rich foods can lead to a loss in microbial diversity and even the extinction of some important microbial species. 

Ageing

The microbiome changes with advanced age and some of these changes are associated with increased levels of inflammation and reduced neurological health. 

Depression

Some research points toward the development of a disease cycle in depression, where a depressed state can lead to alterations in the microbiome which in turn will lead to more severe depression. 

Medications

Certain medications, such as antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors can negatively affect the gut microbiome and can thus have an impact on the overall health of the gut-brain axis.

Start feeling better with Cerebiome^®

• Decreases the cycle of everyday stress and general stress by 44%.
• Supports healthy cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
• Modulates feel good hormones.
• Promotes a healthy brain.

Cerebiome^® helps calm an upset gut during stress by:

• Promoting intestinal comfort.
• Promoting normal gut microflora.
• Protecting the intestinal barrier.

Article supplied by: Phytoceutics™