Many autistic children have a lower
amount of a common microbial species
called Bacteroides fragilis, leading
researchers at California Institute of
Technology to introduce these cells
into the systems of lab mice who
exhibited autism-like symptoms such
as anxiety and antisocial tendencies.
Remarkably, the mice became less
anxious, interacted more with other
mice and exhibited fewer repetitive
actions.
Scientists have also found that gut
bacteria produce mood-enhancing
substances such as serotonin and
dopamine. Certain other organisms
play a part in how these and other
compounds are metabolized and
circulated through the blood.
GUT MICROBIOME & ALZHEIMER'S
A recent Wisconsin study examined
possible links between gut microbes
and Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Researchers
found that AD patients had
reduced amounts of microbes in the
Firmicutes family. Notably, diabetes
and insulin resistance are risk factors
for developing AD and patients with
Type 2 Diabetes also show lowered
amounts of Firmicutes.
The study also showed higher levels
of the Bacteroides in AD patients. This
microbe can increase inflammation
and is also higher in people with Type
2 Diabetes and Parkinson's Disease.
Researchers think there may be a link
between inflammation and the development
of amyloid plaques found in
the brains of AD patients.
The human microbiome is an exciting,
complicated field of study that continues
to grow and expand, much of it in
tandem with genetic research. Each
new study seems to pose new questions
and the need for more research,
but clear links are emerging that show
promising avenues of exploration in
what scientists have dubbed the “gutbrain
axis.”
How Does Yogurt Make You Feel?
One UCLA study of 36 women between the ages of 18 and 55
examined the mood-altering effects of yogurt with probiotics
(containing live bacteria). One group ate yogurt containing a
mix of probiotics twice a day for four weeks; another group ate
a dairy product with no probiotics; and a third group ate none
at all. Before and after the study, participants had brain scans
while viewing a series of emotion-triggering images (sadness,
anger, etc.). Researchers were surprised to find that the women
who had eaten yogurt with probiotics clearly reacted more
calmly than the other women. Although scientists don't fully
understand how microbiomes affect the brain, perhaps this is
one more reason for yogurt lovers to rejoice!
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