Can changes in gut bacteria help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder and depression?
The idea that gut bacteria might affect mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression is an active area of research. Studies have found that people with these conditions often have different gut bacteria compared to healthy people 91011. However, it is not yet clear whether changing gut bacteria — for example, with probiotics or diet — can actually improve symptoms. The evidence so far is preliminary, and more research is needed before doctors can recommend this approach.
What the research says
Several studies have compared the gut bacteria of people with bipolar disorder or depression to healthy controls. One study found that people with bipolar depression had lower levels of butyrate-producing bacteria, which are important for gut health 9. Another study reported that certain bacteria were more common in women with bipolar disorder, suggesting that gender may play a role 10. A review of human studies concluded that people with mood disorders tend to have fewer short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and more pro-inflammatory bacteria 11. These findings suggest a link between gut bacteria and mood disorders, but they do not prove that changing the bacteria can treat symptoms. One study also looked at how the medication quetiapine affected gut bacteria in bipolar patients and found that the bacteria changed after treatment 9. This raises the possibility that some of the benefits of medication might involve the gut, but this is still speculative.
What to ask your doctor
- What is currently known about the role of gut bacteria in bipolar disorder and depression?
- Are there any dietary changes or probiotics that have been shown to help with my symptoms?
- Could my current medications be affecting my gut bacteria, and if so, does that matter?
- Should I consider having my gut bacteria tested, and would the results change my treatment?
- Are there any clinical trials on gut bacteria and mood disorders that I might be eligible for?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Psychiatry and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.