Branded Content by Cosmic Press

It’s not easy to deal with anxiety and depression. We all want to find relief from our symptoms but often don’t know what the best solution is for us. Although there are medications that can help, many of them have side effects. If you are looking for a natural way to control anxiety and depression, there are plenty of things you could try instead and, these days, probiotic supplements have become one of the most popular options.

But while probiotics offer potential benefits, it’s important to understand that not all probiotics are created equal. There are many different types of bacteria, and each type can provide different levels of benefit. In this guide, we’ll give you an overview of the best probiotic supplements for anxiety and depression and provide additional information about the gut-brain connection to help you understand how they work.

Probiotics for Anxiety – Top Supplement Brands

1. Yourbiology Gut+ – Best Probiotic for Women
2. Biotics 8 – Best Probiotic for Men
3. Health Nutrition 40 Billion – Universal Probiotic

As you can see, there are two top probiotic options. One of them is the best probiotic for women and the other one is the top choice for men. However, both products are extremely popular and, during times of high demand, it’s not unheard of for supplies to run short. In case this happens, we have included a third option for you to consider ordering instead. Although it’s not as good as the top two options, it’s far superior to any of the other probiotic supplements we reviewed.

Yourbiology Gut+ – Best Probiotic for Women

CLICK to view Yourbiology Gut+ website and see price and special offers

Yourbiology Gut+ is a probiotic supplement specifically formulated for women. It contains 4 probiotic strains. Collectively, they provide 40 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per capsule. Each strain offers multiple benefits including helping to relieve anxiety and depression.

Intended for women of all ages, this supplement can be particularly beneficial for women who are approaching their golden years because some of the probiotics it provides are able to address issues related to menopause and reduce the risk of weak bones and osteoporosis.

Mental Health Key Benefits

• Reduces stress and depression
• Balances vaginal flora
• Improves weight management
• Supports improvements in complexion
• Reduces bloating
• Improves elimination
• Combats the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Anxiety Relieving Probiotic Strains

All the probiotics in YourBiology Gut+ come from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria families. Species that come from these two families are known for their safety characteristics and value as antiviral agents. [1]

Each species is also associated with a diverse range of benefits. Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) is a good example. Research shows strains from this species can reduce anxiety and stress, fight depression, reduce fatigue, and remedy insomnia. [2, 3]

When scientists compared the abilities of L. plantarum to Citalopram (prescription anti-depressant), the probiotic came out on top. [4]

Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei), is another YourBiology Gut+ ingredient that boasts good credentials as a natural anxiety treatment. It’s also an effective probiotic treatment for bloating and abdominal pain. [5, 6]

In addition to providing probiotics that reduce anxiety and support good mental health, YourBiology Gut+ also provides a generous amount of fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

FOS is one of the best forms of prebiotic fiber. To probiotic bacteria, this type of fiber is food.

Thanks to a special seaweed-based pill coating, the probiotics in this supplement are released into the gut instead of the stomach.

Pros

• Specially formulated for women
• Provides probiotics with proven abilities
• Contains prebiotic fiber
• Utilizes a special delivery technology
• Free shipping
• Bonus bottles available when you order a 2 or 3-month supply
• Has a 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Only available from the official website
• There can an be availability issues during times of high customer demand

Biotics 8 – Best Probiotic for Men

CLICK to view Biotics 8 website and see price and special offers

Biotics 8 is a high-performance probiotic supplement designed for men. In addition to several versatile probiotic bacteria species, along with two sources of prebiotic fiber (FOS + Inulin), the formula also provides digestive enzymes and vitamin D. Don’t confuse this supplement with standard probiotic products, there’s an awful lot going on under the hood.

The digestive enzymes are present to enhance digestive capabilities, helping the body to capture more of the nutrients and energy from food passing through the digestive tract.

Vitamin D is an important nutrient that plays a key role in testosterone production and healthy immune function. Vitamin D deficiency is surprisingly common and the risks appear to increase as men get older.

Research suggests vitamin D also supports improvements in gut health by helping to regulate intestinal barrier integrity and supporting improvements in the gut microbiome. [7]

Key Benefits

• Strengthens the gut-brain axis
• Supports mental wellbeing
• Aids weight loss
• Improves digestion
• Improves muscle growth and endurance
• Enhances natural immunity
• Supports healthy testosterone levels

Notable Probiotic Strains

Like YourBiology Gut+ Biotics 8 provides strains from two of the best probiotic species for treating depression and anxiety – L. plantarum and L. paracasei. [4, 5].

The formulation also provides Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus). This probiotic offers multiple benefits. Improving testicular tissue quality is just one of the things it can do. [8]

Pros

• Designed for men
• Provides probiotic bacteria with proven abilities
• Contains additional beneficial ingredients
• Provides 2 sources of prebiotic fiber
• No extra charges for shipping
• Possible to get 3 bottles for the price of 2 or 5 for the price of 3
• Has a 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• You can only buy it from the official website
• May become temporarily unavailable during times of high customer demand

Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion – Universal Probiotic

CLICK to see Health Nutrition website and view pricing and latest offers

Another quality option, Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion is a unisex probiotic supplement that is designed to promote improvements in digestive health and provide additional benefits.

Despite a strong ingredient profile, the manufacturer markets this product in a very understated way, failing to draw attention to many of the benefits the supplement may provide.

According to the official sales page, people who use this supplement can expect the following things:

• Natural ingredients that boost digestive health
• Replenishes healthy bacteria
• Stronger immune defenses

That’s it! This dietary supplement is ridiculously undersold. It can do much more and, thanks to the inclusion of a generous dose of L. Plantarum, Probiotic 40 Billion can be very useful for alleviating mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. [4]

Needless to say, there will also be other health benefits including a stronger immune system and relief from gut dysbiosis.

However, although Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion is superior to all the other probiotic products we evaluated during our search for the top products, due to their specialized nature, YourBiology Gut+ and Biotics 8 are still better options. We are only presenting Probiotics 40 Billion as the most suitable alternative if supplies of the other two options run short.

Pros

• High-quality formulation
• Contains probiotic bacteria that can reduce anxiety and depression
• Benefits overall health and well-being
• Free shipping to the US, UK, and Canada
• 100-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Only available from the Health Nutrition website
• You’ll need to pay for shipping if you don’t live in the US, UK, or Canada

What is Probiotic Bacteria and Why Is It Important?

Probiotic bacteria are living microorganisms that are naturally occurring inside the gut. Although bacteria are often associated with illness, not all bacteria are harmful. In fact, certain strains of bacteria help promote overall well-being, particularly in relation to gut health.

The human gut is home to trillions of microbes, including both harmful and beneficial bacteria. The balance between these two types of bacteria is essential for optimal functioning of the digestive system and overall health.

Any disruption to this balance can lead to various health issues, including digestive disorders, weakened immunity, skin disorders, and even mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

Probiotic bacteria work by promoting a healthy gut microbiome. They help maintain the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, supporting efficient digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.

Additionally, probiotics produce certain compounds that can reduce inflammation, strengthen the gut barrier, and improve communication between the gut and the brain.

Thanks to continuing research, we now know the importance of probiotic bacteria extends beyond the gut. Emerging research suggests that the state of the gut microbiome may have a significant impact on mental health.

The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the central nervous system, plays a crucial role in regulating mood, behavior, and cognitive function. By influencing this axis, probiotic bacteria potentially offer a natural and safe way to support mental wellness and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

What the Experts Say About Taking Probiotics for Mental Wellness

Despite all the promising research, many health professionals are still unsure if probiotics can have a long-term impact on mental well-being.

However, with the increasing number of studies examining the role the gut microbiome plays in mental well-being, this attitude is beginning to change. Some healthcare providers are now recommending certain probiotics as part of their treatment plans for patients with anxiety and depression.

Furthermore, with the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of probiotics for mental health, many practitioners are asking for further research. There is considerable interest in learning more about the various ways gut bacteria may influence cognitive function and mood.

How to Get the Best Results While Taking Probiotics

Using probiotics for mental health is still a relatively new concept, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to obtaining the best results. However, here are some steps you can take to try and maximize the benefits all around:

1. Choose a product with clinically proven strains – Make sure it contains good bacteria that have plenty of research behind them such as L. plantarum and L. paracasei.
2. Be consistent – Like most supplements, probiotics work best when taken regularly over an extended period. It’s also important to try to take the doses at similar times every day.
3. Eat a balanced diet – Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential for optimizing and maintaining gut health and promoting mental wellness.
4. Consult your healthcare provider – If you are taking a probiotic supplement for mental health issues, make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure the product you choose is suitable and provide valuable advice on how best to use it.

Following these steps will help you to get the best results from your probiotic supplement. However, remember, it may take several weeks for the positive effects to become noticeable, so don’t give up too soon if you don’t notice any immediate changes. Stick with it. Remember, the probiotics you are taking have to improve your gut microbiome one day at a time.

Related content: Which probiotic is best for leaky gut syndrome?

Will Probiotics Be the Right Choice for You?

Probiotics may offer an effective, natural option for managing various issues including anxiety and depression. However, it’s important to remember that probiotics are not a cure-all solution. Everyone is different, so what works for some people might not work for others.

You also need to remember that, although supplements that provide these beneficial gut microbes may help bring relief to anxiety disorder and mood issues, they are unlikely to be a good substitute for medication if you suffer from a major depressive disorder or other mental health issues such as bipolar or schizophrenia.

If you do suffer from mental health conditions such as these, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements, so they can ensure the product is suitable and provide advice on how to maximize the benefits.

Ultimately, probiotic bacteria may offer a natural way to support mental wellness and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. But as with most things related to our health, we have to find out what works best for us by paying attention to our body’s signals and noticing how we respond.

Do Probiotics Have Side Effects?

Generally speaking, probiotic products don’t cause side effects. Most people tolerate them well. However, in rare cases, some users may experience side effects such as bloating or gas.  Fortunately, side effects such as these tend to disappear after a few days. It’s just a case of giving your body time to become used to the changes taking place in the gut microbiome.

If you do suffer from any of these problems while taking a probiotic supplement, try reducing the dosage for a few days and see if that helps. If not, it is advisable to consult a doctor or healthcare provider before continuing to use the supplement.

Lifestyle Changes and Probiotics

When taking probiotics for mental health, it is important to remember that these beneficial gut bacteria are just part of the equation. To maximize the benefits, it is also necessary to make additional lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, trying to avoid stressful situations, and getting plenty of sleep.

There are strong arguments for consuming more probiotic foods and prebiotic fiber to support improvements in gut health and maintain mental well-being.

Probiotic foods such as kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and tempeh are readily available in many stores. Fermented vegetables can also be made at home using simple recipes and a few ingredients. Incorporating them into your diet is an easy way to help replenish your gut flora levels.

However, it’s important to be aware there is never any way to be certain how much bacteria you are getting and the CFU may be quite low.

Many foods, including bananas, almonds, onions, cabbage, and peas, are excellent sources of prebiotic fiber. Although your digestive organs are unable to process this type of dietary fiber, it nourishes probiotic bacteria helping them to multiply.

Research shows prebiotics can have a remarkable influence on human health. Among other benefits, this type of fiber can provide protection from obesity, cancer, vascular diseases, and mental disorders. [9]

Unfortunately, just as certain foods can improve the gut microbiome, others can disrupt it, and foods that are high in sugar can be particularly bad. [10]

To make matters worse, many modern foods are unexpected sources of sugar. Especially processed options, which are unhealthy on many levels and best avoided.

Probiotics for Anxiety and Depression FAQs

How do probiotic supplements work?

Probiotic supplements work by introducing specific strains of probiotic bacteria and/or yeast into the digestive system. These microorganisms help restore or maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which can improve digestion, enhance immune function, and potentially improve mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Are probiotic supplements safe to consume?

In general, probiotic supplements are considered safe for most people. However, it’s important to choose high-quality products from reputable brands and follow the recommended dosage.

People with immune system impairments or certain health conditions may need to consult a healthcare professional before starting to use this type of supplement.

How long does it take for probiotic products to show results?

The time it takes for probiotic products to show results can vary depending on the individual and the specific probiotic species and strains.

Some people may notice improvements in digestive symptoms within a few days, while it may take several weeks for mental health benefits to become apparent.

Can you take probiotics alongside medications?

Although it may be safe to use probiotics alongside medications, it’s best to get professional medical advice before doing so.

Is it safe to take probiotics during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to get a doctor’s approval before using any form of dietary supplement, including probiotics.

Probiotics for Mental Health (Anxiety, Stress and Depression) Conclusion

Overall, probiotics are becoming increasingly popular as an effective, natural way to promote mental health and wellness and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research is ongoing, but early indications suggest these beneficial bacteria can offer support for our psychological health and reduce mental illness.

However, it’s important to remember that probiotics should be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as therapy or medication if prescribed. It is also important to remember that everyone’s body is different and what works for some people may not work for others.

It is always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before taking any supplement, especially if you suffer from mental health problems. They can help ensure the product you choose is suitable and provide advice on how best to use it.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that probiotics will be a good option for you and increase the likelihood of achieving optimal results. With some patience and perseverance, you may find that your mental well-being benefits from supplementing with beneficial bacteria.

Probiotics for Anxiety, Depression and Stress Sources of Reference

1. Probiotic Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium Strains Possess Safety Characteristics, Antiviral Activities and Host Adherence Factors Revealed by Genome Mining: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6883010/
2. Psychobiotic Lactobacillus Plantarum Jylp-326 Relieves Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia Symptoms in Test Anxious College via Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolism: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10077425/
3. Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 on Depressive Symptoms and Sleep Quality in Self-Reported Insomniacs: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34444980/
4. Clinical Application Value of Lactobacillus Plantarum PS128 in Patients with Anxiety Disorders: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9329101/
5. Lacticaseibacillus Paracasei Lpc-37® Improves Psychological and Physiological Markers of Stress and Anxiety in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled and Parallel Clinical Trial (The Sisu Study): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7770962/
6. Efficacy of Lactobacillus Paracasei Sub. Paracasei F19 on Abdominal Symptoms in Patients With Symptomatic Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease: A Pilot Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21372765/
7. Vitamin D and the Host-Gut Microbiome: A Brief Overview: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7322162/
8. Effects of Cholesterol and Lactobacillus Acidophilus on Testicular Function: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8421657/
9. Prebiotics: Definition, Types, Sources, Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6463098/#sec8-foods-08-00092title
10. High Intake of Sugar and the Balance between Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Gut Bacteria: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7284805/