Probiotic bacteria might offer a temporary boost for sleep and vitality in mild depression

A study published in Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology found that a daily probiotic supplement could provide temporary improvements in sleep and vitality for individuals experiencing mild to moderate depression. The researchers tested the effects of the Bifidobacterium longum 1714 strain over an eight-week period. While overall depression severity did not differ significantly between the probiotic and placebo groups, participants taking the probiotic reported better sleep quality and higher vitality scores at the four-week mark.

These advantages faded by the study's conclusion, as the placebo group eventually caught up in sleep quality and mood categories. The probiotic was found to be safe, with no significant side effects. The researchers suggest that the initial benefits could be attributed to the placebo effect or the natural progression of recovery, as participants often improve in response to treatment expectations or increased attention from healthcare professionals.