It has been established that there is a link between the anti-inflammatory properties of probiotics and anxiety or depression, suggesting that drinking probiotic-rich Kombucha may help alleviate some of the symptoms of depression and could help promote positive mental health.
According to this recent review of 21 studies containing 1,503 subjects on the effects of regulating gut microbiota on anxiety symptoms showed it was positive to treat anxiety symptoms by regulation of intestinal microbiota which in turn can regulate brain function through the gut-brain axis.
Changes in intestinal bacteria plays a significant role in neuropsychiatric conditions such as anxiety or depression. The intestine has its own separate nervous system, and generates the same neurotransmitters (dopamine, acetylcholine, epinephrine and serotonin) that the brain generates. These neurotransmitters are very important in promoting gut motility, where too much or too little of neurotransmitters result in constipation or diarrhea. The brain and the gut can talk to each other and it is possible that gastrointestinal conditions such as constipation, IBS or chronic abdominal pain can result in anxiety or depression.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that 64% of people with mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression who took daily probiotics for six weeks had fewer depression symptoms during that time. The same study found that probiotics increase quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI, a technique for measuring brain activity, also showed that people taking probiotics had changes in areas of the brain involved in mood suggesting that the probiotics have antidepressant properties.
People who experience anxiety or depression symptoms might ease their conditions by regulating the microorganisms in their gut using probiotic supplements such as Kombucha.
