By pH health care professionals

Anxiety disorders and depression are among the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., with anxiety affecting 18 percent of the adult population and depression affecting an estimated 1 in 10 U.S. adults. These conditions take a toll both now and in the future.

In fact, some scientists have noticed anxiety and depression cause shorter telomeres in DNA -- a telltale sign of a shorter lifespan. So, what to do?

For millions of people, treatment begins with a prescription pad. But researchers have been getting creative to find safer alternatives. In fact, they aren’t just looking at treatments for the brain -- they’re looking at treatments for your digestive system!

Scientists are going with a ‘gut feeling’

Believe it or not, your gut is often referred to as a kind of “second brain,” affecting your mood in surprising ways. Two specific probiotic organisms (you know -- the healthy bacteria that live in your intestines!) have been shown to improve anxiety and depression symptoms by as much as 50-55 percent -- the Lactobacillus helveticus strain R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum strain R0175.

Who should try probiotic supplements then?

If you have anxiety and/or depression, talk to a doctor about whether it’s safe for you to take a high-quality probiotic supplement -- especially if you’ve experienced early life stresses (which may have changed the makeup of your gut bacteria), high stress levels, or digestive/intestinal pains.

Enjoy Your Healthy Life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. To learn more about the pH Health Care Team, click here.