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

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Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus, a genus of bacteria commonly found in the human gut and used as a probiotic supplement, has been investigated for its potential effects on anxiety disorders. Emerging evidence from preclinical studies (mainly in animal models) and a limited number of human trials suggests a possible link between gut microbiota—including Lactobacillus species—and mood regulation via the gut-brain axis. Some rodent studies have demonstrated that supplementation with certain Lactobacillus strains can reduce anxiety-like behaviors, possibly through modulation of neurotransmitters such as GABA and by affecting inflammatory pathways.

In humans, randomized controlled trials are fewer and results are mixed. Some small-scale studies and meta-analyses have reported modest improvements in self-reported anxiety symptoms when participants took multispecies probiotics containing Lactobacillus. However, many studies have methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes, short duration, varying strains, and concurrent use of other probiotic species. There is not yet robust evidence to support the use of Lactobacillus (unspecified) as a stand-alone treatment for anxiety disorders. Major clinical guidelines do not currently recommend probiotics, including Lactobacillus, as a primary or adjunctive therapy for these conditions.

In summary, while there is some early scientific interest and promising preclinical data, the overall quality and quantity of clinical evidence for Lactobacillus in treating anxiety disorders is low, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5 for evidence strength.

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