This study reports a large population cohort study in which the authors correlate microbial taxa with quality of life and the incidence of depression.
As I've been reading about the studies about microbiome differences in people with various mental illnesses, is there any potential for a connection regarding contagion of mental issues? Like if people are around each other for long enough, will their microbiome and therefore their mental state become similar?
I have had similar questions. The answer I get back from medical professionals is that it is new science and there isn't enough information to directly advise.
I'm then told that if I eat the probiotic stuff, it probably won't hurt, but they can't guarantee it will help either.
Has never helped me. Nor has eating fiber/taking a supplement. I think we will find soon that many mental illnesses are the same disease, just a different symptom, as things like IBS.
With gut issues, what you eat seems to be
The biggest factor. With GERD, one needs to avoid garlic, onion, tomatoes, chocolate, alcohol and sugar as a start. I have seen people with IBS who follow the low FODMAP diet and see relief. I know someone who eats what he wants and laughingly faces the consequences.