Synopsis

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

There is emerging scientific evidence suggesting that certain species of Bifidobacterium may have a positive impact on mood and emotional regulation, but the evidence is still preliminary and not robust. Several small-scale human clinical trials and animal studies have explored the gut-brain axis, highlighting the potential of probiotics, including Bifidobacterium species, to modulate neurochemical pathways, reduce inflammation, and influence the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which are linked to mood regulation. For example, a 2016 randomized controlled trial found that supplementation with a combination of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains led to modest improvements in depressive symptoms in healthy volunteers. Other studies have reported that certain Bifidobacterium strains may reduce anxiety-like behaviors in animal models.

However, evidence specifically targeting "mood swings" (as opposed to broader depressive or anxiety symptoms) is limited. Most clinical trials have small sample sizes, short durations, and use heterogeneous probiotic formulations, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions about efficacy. Major health organizations do not currently recognize Bifidobacterium as a primary or established treatment for mood swings. Thus, while there is a plausible biological rationale and early-stage research suggesting a potential benefit, the clinical evidence remains insufficient and inconsistent to strongly support its use for this condition.

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