Probiotics are best known for supporting digestion, but they may also affect mood and emotions. That’s because the gut and the brain are in constant two-way communication, a link often called the gut-brain axis.
Millions of microbes live in the gut and do more than help break down food. They send signals that can influence the brain and central nervous system. Keeping the right balance of these microorganisms matters; when that balance shifts, it can contribute to physical and mental health problems.
Probiotics—live beneficial bacteria—can help restore and maintain a healthy gut community. Growing research suggests that certain probiotic strains may improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and some studies report benefits for people with depression and other mood disorders. Scientists are still working to understand exactly how these effects happen, but the evidence so far is encouraging.
You can get probiotics from fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha, or from supplements. Not all probiotics have the same effects: different strains do different things, and quality and dosage matter. Talk with a healthcare provider before starting a supplement, and pay attention to how your body responds.
As research continues, probiotics may become a useful addition to traditional mental health treatments. For now, they offer a promising, low-risk way to support overall gut health—which in turn may support mental wellbeing.
