The gut microbiome contains a diverse array of micro organisms in the human digestive system, which is innate at birth. The development of this microbial system occurs at birth and its modification occurs with nutritional, environmental (including mental and physical habits) and genetic factors. This change in the microbial composition, can alter digestion, intestinal permeability, metabolic, as well as the immune response.
The ‘gut and brain axis’ is believed to be well established, wherein the gut receives and sends messages via the enteric nervous system through nerve pathways, as well as via the bloodstream. Thus, the gut and its microbiome affect one’s immunity, hormonal function and the nervous system, as well as regulation of behaviour. Therefore, stress can be affected by these regulatory signals of the enteric nervous system.
Research with probiotics has shown a strong correlation to certain states of anxiety and depression. Some strains of natural flora bacteria, such as Lactobacillus species, are believed to provide a dampening of the central response system.
