Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactobacillus, a genus of probiotic bacteria, has been investigated for its potential effects on anxiety disorders through the gut-brain axis. Preclinical studies in animals have shown that certain strains of Lactobacillus can influence neurochemical pathways, reduce stress-induced behaviors, and modulate inflammatory responses. Some small human clinical trials and pilot studies have also reported modest reductions in self-reported anxiety symptoms after supplementation with specific Lactobacillus strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus helveticus, often in combination with other probiotics. These effects are hypothesized to be mediated by alterations in gut microbiota composition, immune modulation, and changes in neurotransmitter levels like GABA.

However, the scientific evidence remains limited and mixed. Most studies to date are small, short-term, or lack rigorous controls. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is some promise, the overall quality of evidence is low, and results are not consistently significant. No major clinical guidelines currently endorse Lactobacillus as an established treatment for anxiety disorders. Thus, while there is early scientific investigation supporting a possible benefit, the evidence is insufficient to justify widespread clinical use at this time.

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Products containing Lactobacillus

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