Increasing scientific research has found evidence that Lactobacillus Reuteri, a natural gut-residing bacterium, holds promise in alleviating symptoms of autism, anxiety, and depression. Research brings hope that a safe, natural supplement could support brain health and behavior in those with these conditions. In this article, let's delve deeper into the benefits of Lactobacillus Reuteri for autism, anxiety and depression by shedding light on the gut-brain connection and reviewing pivotal clinical studies investigating its effectiveness.
The Summary
- The gut-brain axis, an interconnected system involving the gut microbiota, immune system, and brain, plays a crucial role in our health.
- There is a potential link between gut dysbiosis and anxiety and depression, suggesting the gut microbiota as a target for therapeutic interventions.
- Lactobacillus Reuteri significantly affects gut and brain health, alleviating inflammatory symptoms in the brain, protecting the gut barrier, and reducing oxidative stress.
- Lactobacillus Reuteri shows potential benefits for individuals with autism, anxiety, and depression, as seen in animal models and clinical trials.
The Relation Between Brain And Gut
The brain and gut are closely linked despite being seen as separate. The gut contains trillions of bacteria collectively known as the gut microbiota. These bacteria are essential to our overall health and well-being, including our brain function.
The gut and the brain are linked through hormones, immunity, and nerves, regulated by the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system governing gut function. Collectively, they're referred to as the "gut-brain axis." [4].
The gut microbiota and immune system communicate by releasing immune-modulating compounds and cytokines. These compounds can have effects throughout the entire body.
The gut microbiota also produces substances like short-chain fatty acids that can impact brain function.
Additionally, there is a connection between certain neurotransmitters and the two-way communication between the host (the person or animal) and the microbiota (the collection of microorganisms in the gut).
This means that the gut and immune system work together and significantly influence various aspects of our health. [1]
In a 2015 online published study by author Nicholas J. Talley, population-based surveys and 5 to 12-year follow-ups indicated that psychological distress could predict later onset of functional gastrointestinal disorders and vice versa.
The research explored evidence demonstrating that the gut microbiota might impact brain function, consequently affecting stress, anxiety, depression, and cognition. [2]
Understand About The Relationship of Autism & Anxiety and Depression
Autism, anxiety, and depression are intricate neurodevelopmental disorders that arise from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.
Furthermore, these conditions can often co-occur, with research demonstrating a significant prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among individuals with autism.
A comprehensive study involving the mothers of 627 children with autism revealed a strong correlation between anxiety and depression.
Notably, these comorbidities were not only linked to one another but also associated with the severity of autism, somatic complaints, mood disturbances, and social difficulties [9].
Moreover, recent investigations have indicated a potential connection between anxiety, depression, and gut dysbiosis - an imbalance in the microbial communities residing in the gut.
This intriguing relationship has prompted researchers to explore probiotics such as lactobacillus Reuteri as potential interventions for these conditions [9].
How Does Lactobacillus Reuteri Impact To Brain And Gut Health?
Lactobacillus Reuteri, a probiotic bacterium found in human and animal intestines, has garnered attention for its profound impact on gut and brain health, supported by research published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research. [3]
Numerous studies have been conducted to assess the impact of Lactobacillus Reuteri for autism, anxiety and depression through the condition and function of the brain, mainly through the intricate gut-brain axis.
Expressions of inflammatory cytokines in the brain were alleviated after a combined probiotic and inulin intervention for four weeks [4].
Cytokines are protein compounds produced to activate the immune system; however, an excessive amount of inflammation-inducing cytokines can lead to adverse inflammatory effects on the brain and various body parts, especially the lungs.
The research also noted the effect of Reuteri and inulin in protecting the integrity of the gut barrier [5].
Myeloperoxidase activity and oxidative stress in the brains and guts of mice given Reuteri were also reduced, further supporting the potential effects of Lactobacillus Reuteri, specifically, and probiotics in general, on the gut-brain axis [6].
Mice exhibiting signs of traumatic brain injury were also studied under the influence of metabolic products from Reuteri through a ketogenic diet.
The research observed beneficial effects of this probiotic on neuroinflammation and mild traumatic brain injury [5].
These studies highlight the potential effects of Lactobacillus Reuteri on brain and gut functions, opening up hypotheses about its potential relevance to conditions such as autism, anxiety, and depression.
How Does Lactobacillus Reuteri Benefit For Autism & Anxiety and Depression?
Lactobacillus Reuteri has shown promising benefits on autism, anxiety, and depression. Animal experiments improved despair and anxiety-related behaviors in mice with chronic stress, as well as reversed social deficits in certain mouse models of autism. [9]
Additionally, a study involving mothers experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum found that the treatment group receiving probiotics, including Reuteri, exhibited significantly lower depression and anxiety scores compared to the placebo group. [10]
Furthermore, a comprehensive review of studies on prebiotics and probiotics' effects on depression and anxiety referenced a study where participants consumed Lactobacillus Reuteri and other strains for 3 weeks, resulting in an improvement in anxiety levels. [11]
These findings highlight the benefits of Lactobacillus Reuteri for autism, anxiety, and depression.
Other Probiotics For Autism
Reuteri is among the probiotics that have shown a beneficial influence on the gut-brain axis, alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety in humans.
Additionally, various other probiotic strains present numerous promising effects that individuals can incorporate into their diet, such as:
Lactobacillus acidophilus: a probiotic strain that may improve bowel movements and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with autism. [12]
Bifidobacterium infantis: has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, potentially benefiting those with autism who often have elevated levels of inflammation. [13]
Conclusion
The significance of Lactobacillus Reuteri in supporting the gut-brain axis and promoting intestinal health has led to its recognition in managing symptoms of mental health. With its positive effects of Lactobacillus Reuteri for autism, anxiety and depression incorporating probiotics into the diet has become commonplace. In addition to obtaining probiotics from natural sources, functional food products containing Lactobacillus Reuteri offer a potential alternative. Assess your personal needs and unlock the potential of Reuteri in enhancing mood and mental well-being.
