Discover your unique microbiome profile with advanced testing

Learn More →
Health Goal

Mental Health

Support your cognitive and emotional wellbeing through the gut-brain axis

1

Improved mood stability

2

Reduced anxiety and stress response

3

Enhanced cognitive function

4

Better sleep quality

5

Balanced neurotransmitter production

The Gut-Brain Connection

Your gut microbiome plays a profound role in mental health. Through what scientists call the gut-brain axis, trillions of microorganisms communicate directly with your brain, influencing everything from mood to cognitive function.

💡 Key Insight

About 90% of serotonin—the "feel-good" neurotransmitter—is produced in your gut. Your microbiome directly influences this production, affecting mood, sleep, and overall mental wellbeing.

Research Highlights

Gut-Brain Axis Influences Mood Regulation

Research confirms bidirectional communication between gut microbiome and brain affects mood, stress response, and cognitive function.

Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 2023

Specific Probiotic Strains Reduce Anxiety Symptoms

Clinical trials show certain probiotic formulations significantly reduce anxiety scores compared to placebo.

JAMA Psychiatry, 2024

Specific Benefits

Explore the specific ways microbiome optimization supports mental health. Each benefit page provides in-depth information on mechanisms, supporting bacteria, and practical strategies.

Key Beneficial Microbes

These specific microorganisms have been scientifically shown to support mental health through various mechanisms.

Dietary Recommendations

🥗 Foods to Include

  • Omega-3 rich foods (fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds)
  • Fermented foods
  • Colorful fruits and vegetables
  • Dark chocolate
  • Green tea

💊 Supplements to Consider

  • Psychobiotics (specific mental health-focused probiotics)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Magnesium
  • B vitamins
  • Vitamin D

Expert Tips

1

Prioritize diverse fiber intake to feed beneficial gut bacteria

2

Reduce processed foods and artificial sweeteners that disrupt gut-brain communication

3

Practice mindfulness meditation to strengthen the gut-brain connection

4

Consider time-restricted eating to support circadian rhythm and mental clarity

5

Combine probiotic supplementation with prebiotic foods for optimal results

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can microbiome changes affect mental health?

Some people report mood improvements within 2-3 weeks, though more substantial changes typically require 6-8 weeks of consistent microbiome support.

Can gut health really impact anxiety and depression?

Yes, substantial research confirms the gut-brain axis connection. About 90% of serotonin receptors are located in the gut, and the microbiome influences neurotransmitter production and regulation.