Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactobacillus paracasei is a probiotic bacterium that has garnered interest for its potential effects on mental health, particularly anxiety, through the gut-brain axis. The scientific rationale for its use is based on emerging research indicating that gut microbiota can influence neurochemical pathways and immune responses that may affect mood and anxiety levels. Preclinical studies (mostly in rodents) have shown that supplementation with certain strains of Lactobacillus, including L. paracasei, can reduce anxiety-like behaviors, possibly by modulating neurotransmitter production (such as GABA), reducing inflammation, and improving intestinal barrier function.

Clinical evidence in humans, however, is limited and still preliminary. Some small-scale human studies and randomized controlled trials have explored the effects of multi-strain probiotics (sometimes including L. paracasei) on psychological well-being, reporting modest improvements in anxiety scores. For example, a few studies using probiotic combinations with L. paracasei have reported reduced self-reported anxiety in healthy adults and in populations under stress. However, these studies often involve multiple probiotic strains, making it difficult to attribute effects specifically to L. paracasei.

Overall, while the use of L. paracasei for anxiety has a scientific basis rooted in the gut-brain axis, the direct clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness for this purpose remains weak and preliminary. Larger and more rigorous human studies are needed to establish its role in anxiety management.

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