The Human Microbiome: Terra Incognita
This diverse community of microbial cells that dwell on and in our bodies has for long awed and puzzled researchers. Thanks to more recent studies that have revealed surprising impacts on mental health, it is beginning to be understood that these little beings might well be changing our brain functions too. It is evolving constantly.
From the Chemistry of Microbes to Our Mental Health When Depression Comes
Traditionally mental illness has been considered through the eyes of neurochemistry or study of the brain. However, newly emerging studies suggest that the microbiome–the many bacteria, viruses, and fungi (among other organisms), mainly in your gut when we eat food–are a significant factor in mental health. This intersection, sometimes known as the “gut-brain axis,” is, however, essentially a two-way communication network between the gut and brain.
One way the gut tells the brain what to do is through a series of complicated paths from vagal nerve to immune system, and various metabolites. The gut microbiome synthesizes or breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine–the regulators of mood in your brain’s nervous system. It also adjusts the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that modify brain function and behavior.
This condition, called dysbiosis, can lead to inflammation and dissociation of neurotransmitter production, as has been the case in studies published in the last few years. It probably contributes to diseases like depression or anxiety.
Recent Study Insights
Gut Bacteria and Depression: An ever-expanding body of evidence attaches dysbiosis to depression. For example, research reported in such journals as Nature Microbiology 65 has pinpointed specific bacterial strains linked to depressive symptoms. People suffering major depressive disorder tend to show lower levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium species.
Probiotics and Mental Health
Clinical trials have examined the effects of probiotics—beneficial bacteria that can restore a microbial imbalance. Studies documented in the 2009 issue of Psychiatry Research indicate that probiotic supplementation can alleviate symptoms and maintain social function in certain people with schizophrenia (K -S Seasaikan-Osami et al.). It can be a potentially therapeutic modality.Analyzed by insertion
The Role of Diet
Diet has a profound impact on the composition and behavior of our microbiomes. According to a recent paper in Science, fiber-rich diets, fermented foods and plant-based nutrients can all help to ensure you nurture a healthier microbiome. Eating In The Journal of Psychiatric Research provides some evidence that diet affects this gut-brain axis.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
It is hoped that with further research the detailed mechanisms of action may determine. In the future, individualised microbiome-based treatments–with specific probiotics or dietary adjustments as one day becoming naturally integral to treatment for mental disorders.
Furthermore, there is now research into the role of the microbiome in other mental illnesses–including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia–in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of its impact.
CONCLUSION
The new field of microbiome research has toppled traditional Western notions of mental health. With gut bacteria shown to play a key role in everything from mood to mental ability, new ways of managing health issues come into view-hearty welcome innovations. As this work continues forward, it promises a day when mental health could have the same kind of individualized care and sophistication as our gut microbiomes do.