Mood boosting probiotics have a wide range of potential health benefits, including supporting gut health, and immune function. However, you are likely here because you are looking for a probiotic to boost mood. While research is ongoing in this area, some studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics may have a positive impact on mood. In this post we go over some mood boosting probiotic strains that have been studied.
Mood Boosting Probiotics List
Here is a list of mood boosting probiotics, but it is not exhaustive. This list is meant to give you a general idea. 
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG): This strain of mood-boosting probiotics has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety. Research suggests that it may help regulate levels of neurotransmitters like GABA, which are involved in mood regulation.
- Bifidobacterium longum: Another probiotic to boost mood, this strain that has been studied extensivly. Some research suggests that it may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by modulating inflammation and neurotransmitter levels. A combination of these first two two strains has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in some studies.
- Lactobacillus plantarum: Research suggests that this strain may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially benefit mood disorders that are associated with inflammation.
- Saccharomyces boulardii: While not a bacterial probiotic, this yeast strain has been studied for its potential mood benefits. Some research suggests that it may be a probiotic that boosts mood by modulating the gut-brain axis.
Using a Probiotic To Boost Mood
Using a probiotic to boost mood is an emerging area with promising findings. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can have a positive impact on gut health, which is increasingly being linked to mental health. Here’s how using a probiotic to boost mood can help:
Mood Boosting Probiotics and the Gut-Brain Axis
The gut and brain communicate bidirectionally through the gut-brain axis. Research suggests that the balance of bacteria in the gut can influence neurotransmitter production, inflammation, and stress response, all of which can impact mood.
Mood Boosting Probiotics and Serotonin Production
Serotonin, often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is primarily produced in the gut. Probiotics may help regulate serotonin levels, which can positively affect mood and emotional well-being.
Mood Boosting Probiotics and Reduction of Inflammation
Dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, has been linked to increased inflammation in the body, which is associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Probiotics may help restore balance to the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation and improving mood.
Using a Probiotic for Stress Reduction
Some studies suggest that probiotics can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. By modulating the stress response, probiotics may indirectly improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety.
Production of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Probiotics can produce SCFAs, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. These compounds may play a role in improving mood and cognitive function.
Choosing a high-quality probiotic supplement with strains specifically studied for mood benefits may increase the likelihood of seeing positive results.
Important Caveats
It’s important to note that while some studies show promising results, the overall evidence for probiotics as mood boosters is still emerging, and individual responses may vary. Probiotics should not be seen as a replacement for conventional treatment for mood disorders. If you’re considering adding probiotics to your routine for mood support, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
