The hidden link between gut bacteria and depression

Your gut is home to trillions of microbes, and emerging science shows they don’t just affect digestion. They also play a surprising role in your mood and mental health. Here’s how gut bacteria may influence depression, and what you can do about it. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

Dysbiosis and Depression: An imbalance in gut bacteria (called dysbiosis) has been observed in people with depression, e.g., fewer beneficial bacteria and more inflammatory microbes. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

Dysbiosis and Depression Link: An imbalance in gut bacteria (called dysbiosis) has been observed in people with depression, e.g., fewer beneficial bacteria and more inflammatory microbes. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

What is the Gut Brain Axis? There’s a two way communication network between your gut and brain, called the Gut Brain Axis. It uses neural, immune and hormonal pathways to pass signals both ways. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

Inflammation, the common thread: When harmful microbes overgrow, they may increase intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), trigger immune responses and inflammation, and chronic inflammation is a key contributor to depression. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

How Lifestyle impacts the Mood: Factors like poor diet (low fibre, high processed food), lack of sleep, stress and antibiotics can alter gut bacteria, which in turn may affect mood and mental health. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

Signs your Gut-Mood Connection Might be Off: Look out for longer-term digestive issues, sluggish mood, brain fog, unusual cravings or sleep issues, these could hint that your gut brain connection needs attention. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)

Can Changing Gut Bacteria Improve Mood? Early research suggests that using prebiotics, probiotics or changing diet may help improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms, though more large-scale studies are needed. (Source: Photo by Unsplash, reference from health central)