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Nutritional Interventions for Perimenopausal Anxiety and Depression Targeting Tryptophan and GABA Pathways: A
1School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sports, Shanghai 200438, China.
Nutrients
|July 15, 2026
Summary
Perimenopause increases anxiety and depression risk due to gut-brain axis dysfunction. Nutritional strategies targeting tryptophan and gamma-aminobutyric acid metabolism show promise for managing mood disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Perimenopause is linked to increased anxiety and depression.
- Gut-brain axis dysfunction is a key factor in perimenopausal mood disorders.
- Tryptophan (Trp) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) metabolism are crucial for mood regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the gut-brain axis in perimenopausal anxiety and depression.
- To explore tryptophan and GABA metabolism as potential therapeutic targets.
- To summarize nutritional interventions for emotional management during perimenopause.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Analysis of the gut-brain axis, tryptophan, and GABA pathways.
- Examination of nutritional interventions and their impact on mood.
Main Results:
- Estrogen fluctuations during perimenopause disrupt gut microbiota, affecting Trp and GABA metabolism.
- Gut-brain axis dysfunction leads to neurotransmitter imbalance and neuroinflammation.
- Nutritional strategies like Trp/GABA supplementation and probiotics show potential, but require further clinical validation.
Conclusions:
- The gut-brain axis plays a significant role in perimenopausal mood disorders.
- Targeting Trp and GABA metabolism through nutrition offers a novel approach.
- Further research is needed to establish the efficacy of nutritional interventions in perimenopausal women.
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