Probiotics, Prebiotics Influence Brain Health

ROMEEating foods rich in probiotics and prebiotics can influence brain behavior, according to new research presented at the 6th Probiotics, Prebiotics & New Foods Congress on Sept. 11.

Professor Stephen Collins of McMaster University presented a lecture titled Brain-gut axis and intestinal microbiota," which unveiled the most recent work conducted by his coworkers bringing solid evidences that the gut microflora can talk to the brain and change behavior as well as brain chemistry in animals. Collins also demonstrated that certain probiotic bacteria have an effect at brain level and are able to reduce anxiety-like behavior in animals, as illustrated by recent animal work with Lactobacillus Rosell-52 and Bifidobacterium Rosell-175 (ProbioStick, Institut Rosell-Lallemand). Collins also discussed how this could benefit human, based on the recent ProbioStick clinical studies that showed the probiotic blend is able to alleviate physiological and psychological symptoms of stress and anxiety in volunteers.

The research supports a recent study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences also found consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and dairy drinks benefit brain health by significantly alleviating stress, anxiety and depression.