Prospects yogurt helps reduce depression

American scientists at Virginia University found that Lactobacillus bacteria, a much-existing yogurt, can improve depression in mice by altering the gut microbiota of this animal and suggesting a possible outlook. The ability to help treat depression.

Lactobacillus bacteria exist in yogurt.(Photo: MNT).

In the new study published in Scientific Reports, the team sought to determine the possibility of a relationship between the gut microbiota and depression . First, they analyzed the intestinal bacteria of mice before and after stress (long-term stress increases the risk of depression). They found that stress reduced Lactobacillus in the intestine of this animal, as they began to show depressive symptoms when Lactobacillus decreased.

Subsequent surveys show that Lactobacillus affects the level of blood metabolites called kynurenine - once known to be associated with depression. They found that the lower the Lactobacillus in mice, the more kynurenine increased. In the next experiment, they added rat food to a Lactobacillus strain called Lactobacillus reuteri for 3 weeks and found Lactobacillus to grow back, depression-like signs almost gone.

This work reinforces evidence from many recent studies on the role of gut microbiota in mental health. An example of a survey published in 2014 shows the potential for beneficial bacteria to help reduce stress and anxiety in adults.