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Bacteria and Stress

A great deal of focus has been placed on the importance of healthy gut flora (probiotics) and immune health. 70% of immune function takes place in your gut.

However, it’s often only a passing mention that probiotics affect your mental health. It’s a handy line for marketing, and there is truth in that statement, but what does that mean?

Several studies have concluded that certain bacteria, mainly from the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains, play a role in the functioning of your central nervous system, behavior, and cognitive abilities.

Some strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus are capable of producing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in your central nervous system. Put simply, GABA has the opposite of a stimulant effect and promotes a feeling of calm.

While GABA supplements are available to help you manage stress and mood, probiotic supplements, which include the bacteria strains mentioned above, can assist your own natural production of GABA along with the other health improving benefits of having healthy gut flora, such as improved immune health, increased energy, weight control and more.

Speak to the Live Well team at Pharmasave Summerland to learn more about how probiotics can help you improve your health and manage stress.

Dan Cassidy, Nutritional Product Advisor