Through the gut-brain axis, microbes living in your guts communicate directly with the brain, influencing everything from mood to feelings of anxiety and depression. A healthy gut can help promote emotional balance, while imbalances may contribute to mood disorders.

In this article we will look at:

• Mood & the gut-brain axis
• Serotonin
• Gut health and food
• What are prebiotics?
• An easy way to support your mood - and overall health

Mood: Depression, anxiety and the gut-brain axis

It is important to know that approximately 90% of serotonin (the 'happy hormone') receptors are located in the gut.

The gut-brain axis is a well-researched, two-way biochemical link between the central nervous system and the gut, influenced by the gut microbiome (microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the digestive tract).

Studies show that prebiotic chicory root fibre can boost beneficial gut bacteria, potentially improving mood.

A study in Nutritional Neuroscience (1)  found that participants who took a prebiotic supplement with chicory root fibre for four weeks had significantly reduced anxiety and depression symptoms compared to a control group. 

Interestingly...When people are prescribed an antidepressant for depression and/ or anxiety such as a selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), the most common side effects are gut-related - such as diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal issues.

Gut health & food

We all know that eating ultra-processed foods isn't the healthiest option. Additionally, these nutrient-deficient, high-fat foods contain chemical additives, impacting gut health and raising disease risk.

Unfortunately, it doesn't just stop at eating highly processed foods, regarding gut health. Thererfore, herbicides and pesticides, such as glyphosate, can have a negative impact on gut and overall health and well-being.(2)

Researchers suggest improving diet to boost mental and physical well-being. Prebiotics aid in serotonin production, supporting digestion and a positive outlook.

What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics, a special type of dietary fibre, nourish beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a balanced microbiome that boosts overall and mental health.

The International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics state that we should be aiming for 3-5g of prebiotic fibre daily.

Find out more by reading 'What is prebiotic fibre?'.

An easy way to get prebiotic chicory root fibre

ió fibrewater is the UK's first prebiotic-infused water that delivers precision nutrition. Every bottle contains 100% of your daily prebiotics and 20% of your daily fibre intake, too!

Made with soluble prebiotic chicory root fibre, ió fibrewater is completely clear, has no added sugar and is just 17 kcals per bottle.

With a splash of refreshing natural fruit flavour (Lemon & Lime or Strawberry), and no 'nasty' ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, ió fibrewater is a great swap-up from other drinks, and tastes great, too!

Get 20% off your next order order of ió fibrewater by using code 'MOOD20' 

Conclusion

There is little doubt that gut health has a direct influence on mood, anxiety and depression. 

Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between prebiotic chicory root fibre and mood, the existing evidence suggests that including this dietary fibre in your diet may have a positive impact on mental health.

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(1) Prebiotics and probiotics for depression and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31004628/ 

(2)  Gut microbiota and neurological effects of glyphosate      https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31442459/