Bacteria are usually considered as a microorganism that is harmful to our body. However, some bacteria can play an important role in maintaining our health. ‘Good’ bacteria in the body, especially those in the intestine, are known to help maintain the digestive system and increase our immunity. An imbalance of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the intestine can affect several health factors such as body weight, blood sugar levels, to cholesterol.

Not only that, the results of studies have shown that intestinal bacteria also have a role in mental health problems, one of which is depression. Experts explain that the presence of intestinal microbiomes is related to the performance of the central nervous system, including in maintaining mental health. Therefore, we are encouraged to always maintain the presence of ‘good’ bacteria in the body by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet. Consuming probiotic and prebiotic foods is one way to maintain their existence in the body.

Prebiotics are the food needed by bacteria in the body, while probiotics are the ‘good’ bacteria itself. You can get prebiotics from consuming berries, bananas, avocados, nuts, spinach, and asparagus. While fermented foods such as yogurt, tempeh, and kimchi are good sources of probiotics. The combination of the two can maintain the balance of bacteria in the body. In fact, the results of recent studies also indicate that both are associated with improvements in depression.

The latest study, published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, shows the link between probiotic and prebiotic intake with mental health problems, namely depression, and anxiety. By reviewing several studies that have been done before, researchers found that intake of probiotics can help reduce symptoms of depression significantly. When combined with prebiotics, they are known to help reduce anxiety symptoms. These results prove that maintaining the balance of bacteria in the body can keep you from mental health risks such as depression and anxiety.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Google Search Images

Source(s):

• Noonan, S., Zaveri, M., Macaninch, E., et al (2020). Food & mood: a review of supplementary prebiotic & probiotic interventions in the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults. BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjnph-2019-000053.
• Medical News Today - Probiotics may reduce symptoms of depression (2020). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/probiotics-may-reduce-symptoms-of-depression, 13 July 2020.