I know someone who has crippling anxiety at a level that requires medication. She has always stated that when she has any stomach issues, it increases the risk of any panic events. Additionally, she found that consuming a daily probiotic reduces her baseline anxiety.
The more we learn about it (this article included), and change variables in our lives, the more certain we are that all types of non-gut-health metrics can be improved by improving gut microbiome.
I developed a panic disorder over the pandemic. Did all the things—meditation, therapy, vitamins, minerals and medication, in that order. All of them took more and more of the edge off, but it wasn't until I started an SNRI that I was able to better pull the signal from my gut. It turns out I have at the very least non-celiac gluten intolerance. Once I went on a strict gluten free diet practically all of my physical and mental symptoms have vanished.
Now, when I consume something with gluten accidentally, I'm met with pretty much all of the fun depression, anxiety and physical pain I was feeling before. Our gut health influences _a lot_ more than we probably realize.
The more we learn about it (this article included), and change variables in our lives, the more certain we are that all types of non-gut-health metrics can be improved by improving gut microbiome.