How to boost your mood with probiotics

Boost your mood with probiotics

An Oxford University study has revealed that taking a multi strain natural probiotic – friendly gut bacteria – daily, for at least four weeks, can reduce depression scores, boost concentration, improve emotional reactions and even enhance your ability to read facial expressions in others.

The findings published in a peer reviewed journal Psychological Medicine add to an already growing body of evidence confirming a two-way link between our gut and our brain. This research strengthens previous work indicating that our gut bacteria can have a very significant impact on our mood and ability to function well emotionally. A total of 71 adults aged between 18 to 55 were recruited for the randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study. Tests carried out at the start of the trial indicated they were all suffering mild to moderate depression, but none were taking antidepressants. An encouraging 50% reduction in depression scores from baseline was observed among the participants who took a natural probiotic capsule daily. Associate Professor Phil Burnet from the Department of Psychiatry at Oxford University says: “Our findings suggest that probiotics could be used as an early intervention to help reduce the risk of people with mild to moderate depression developing a major depressive disorder.” Apart from depression, there is compelling evidence that those of us with gut health/poor bacteria balance issues have a far greater risk of developing IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). When you eat highly processed foods, and consume large amounts of sugar, you actually feed the gut’s unfriendly microbes and create an unhealthy imbalance in your gut. All good reasons for adding a good probiotic capsule to your daily routine! One of the best quality, natural probiotic range is called Optibac.

For more information and helpful advice, call 01603 613228, go to shopnaturally.com or pop into the Natural Food Store, 4 Exchange Street, Norwich

Local Delivery Or Safe Zone Collection Available

From Big to Small We Do It All

We Are Currently Open Wed - Sat 9.30am - 3.30pm

Chickens available March-Oct PET & ANIMAL FEED WILD BIRD FEED AND FEEDERS BEDDING & SUPPLIES, POULTRY PRODUCTS POINT OF LAY CHICKENS Pure Breed & Hybrid

Softer Salt & Much More On-site Cafe 01379 384 801

NEW!

Let’s Go Walkies, fully enclosed dog runs