In recent years, scientists have been able to detect the relationship between a patient’s mental state and their microbiota. Research shows that healthy people and people with mental disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, etc.) have different compositions of the intestinal microflora. The same bacteria are present there in different proportions. Microbiologist Sofya Tsvetikova, head of microbiology at Novabiom, told socialbites.ca.
“There are three main mechanisms by which the microbiota affects the psyche. The first is through the vagus nerve. This is one of the longest nerves in our body; Starting from the brain, it progresses to all internal organs, including the intestines, and transmits signals from there. Through the synthesis of individual substances that resemble hormones or neurotransmitters (biologically active substances that can transmit signals from nerve cells), the signal enters the pituitary gland, which regulates the functioning of all internal organs, including the adrenal glands. It can secrete adrenaline and cortisol. This can affect the development of anxiety states,” explained the expert.
Another mechanism is the ability of the microbiota to synthesize neurotransmitters and their precursors (molecules that resemble neurotransmitters and can later be used for their synthesis).
“The microbiota can be a source of serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which have a calming effect. “Once in the blood, it can directly penetrate the brain and affect the processes occurring in the brain,” the expert added.
The third mechanism is the participation of the microbiota in the metabolism of drugs taken by a person, in particular used for the treatment of mental disorders, destroying active substances or vice versa and synthesizing the like.
“A real breakthrough was made in microbiology not so long ago; Scientists have identified the so-called “joy bacteria,” Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. It is a psychobiotic and is generally predominant in people who are highly satisfied with their quality of life, but much less so in patients with depressive disorders. The mechanisms by which Faecalibacterium prausnitzii affects mental state are not yet fully understood, but the discovery of the joy bacterium could be a major breakthrough in the treatment of depressive disorders and mental illnesses. However, altering the composition of the gut microbiota is already used to treat mental disorders. Taking prebiotics, especially inulin, galacto, and oligosaccharides, in addition to the main treatment. “This has been proven to increase its effectiveness,” he concluded.
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Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.