Instead of focusing solely on finding the right drug for anxiety, perhaps we should also consider the right bug. While medications like Xanax or Zoloft can be helpful in severe cases, it’s worth exploring the role of the gut microbiota in mental health before starting pharmaceuticals.

The gut microbiota significantly influences GABA, a neurotransmitter critical in anxiety regulation. Research on germ-free animals shows substantially lower gut and serum GABA levels. Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1 and Bifidobacterium breve NCIMB8807 have demonstrated the ability to influence GABA levels, potentially through communication with the brain via vagal pathways. Additionally, studies reveal that chronic administration of Lactobacillus plantarum can reduce anxiety and depression behaviors in mice (Liu et al., 2020; Strandwitz, 2018).

These discoveries have led to a new category of probiotics called psychobiotics, which target mental health by supporting neurotransmitter function. For example, Bacillus subtilis is associated with dopamine and noradrenaline modulation, further expanding the potential for psychobiotic interventions.

To address anxiety via gut health, start by analyzing your microbiome. Companies like InJoy.Bio offer accessible stool microbiome testing to identify missing strains involved in GABA production. Once identified, you can restore your gut health through targeted nutrition, prebiotics, and probiotics. Psychobiotic formulations like Omni-Biotic Stress Release Probiotics may provide additional support.

For a deeper dive, check out my podcast with Scott Anderson on psychobiotics and the gut-brain axis: link. (References available)