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Gut Microbiome and Depression: How Microbes Affect the Way We Think
Therese Limbana1, Farah Khan1, Noha Eskander1
1Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA.
Cureus
|September 28, 2020
Summary
The gut microbiome significantly impacts mental health. Research indicates a strong association between gut microbiome function and depression, highlighting its role in overall well-being.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in human health.
- Emerging evidence suggests a connection between gut microflora and mental well-being.
- Dietary interventions can influence gut microbiome composition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the gut microbiome and its relationship with depression.
- To establish the role of the gut microbiome in the development and progression of depression.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed.
- Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) keywords were utilized to identify relevant studies.
- Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, selecting 26 accessible articles.
Main Results:
- The review identified a significant association between the gut microbiome and mental health.
- Findings suggest a correlation between microbiome function and the presence of depressive symptoms.
- Specific microbial functions appear to influence neurological and psychological states.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbiome is strongly linked to mental well-being.
- Further research into the gut-brain axis and depression is warranted.
- Dietary strategies targeting the gut microbiome may offer novel therapeutic avenues for depression.
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