The microbes in the human gut perform many important roles, and there are many beneficial, helpful microorganisms in the human gut microbiome. That microbiome is also directly connected to the brain by the so-called gut-brain axis, and microbes in the human gut can generate molecules that impact the human body, such as some neurotransmitters. Now scientists have performed a small study in human volunteers that has shown that consuming certain types of bacteria can reduce negative feelings. The findings have been reported in npj Mental Health Research.
“The gut–brain connection provides various routes through which bacteria in the gut can influence how we feel and behave, including via the vagus nerve, immune system and hormones,” said corresponding study author Katerina…