Not too long ago, Hal and I listened to a fascinating episode of Radio Lab, called Gut Feelings. It's well-known that the bacteria living inside our gut regulates digestion and strengthens our immune system. But UCLA researchers have recently discovered that the good bacteria, known as probiotics, may also soothe our mind.
Probiotics "affects the brain region that controls the central processing of emotion and sensation. The bugs reduce the brain's response, which suggests that probiotics may play a powerful role in modulating pain sensitivity, stress responsiveness, mood and anxiety." Crazy, right?
Yogurt is the most common natural source of probiotics, but since Hal is lactose-intolerant, I picked up a box of vegetarian Culturelle. We've been swallowing one capsule daily, but it can take a few months before you start to notice any effects.
So I'm curious. Have any of you taken probiotics long-term? Are you feeling any happier? I'd love to know!
{Pre-edited image by Nicole of Three Square Chef}
