Probiotics support gut function, reduce inflammation and now, there is evidence that some brain health issues can be helped by supplementing with probiotics. Gut microbes can regulate brain function through the gut-brain connection, and an imbalance of the gut microbes tips the scale toward mood and anxiety symptoms [2].

The gut microbiota is the primary regulator within the gut-brain connection. Irregular signalling from the gut to the brain may be responsible for the stress response in the body. Stress-related disorders can alter the composition and stability of gut microbiota, resulting in an inflammatory state within the gut [4].

This inflammatory state in the gut increases bacteria associated with inflammation. Inflammation of the brain and nervous system has been linked to psychiatric disorders including ADHD, autism, and depression [2,3]. Probiotics modify the gut bacteria through the production of short chain fatty acids, antimicrobial compounds and antitoxins, and enhance the role of the gut barrier, and reduce inflammation, and altering mood and behaviour.

Gastrointestinal symptoms are seen more often in children and teenagers with ADHD and autism, and other psychiatric disorders [5, 9]. Probiotic supplementation can have a positive effect on ADHD symptoms. Your body is home to billions of organisms like bacteria, fungi and yeasts.

Probiotics may help ease some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease as well. Children already taking antibiotics can benefit from probiotics, too. Antibiotics can cause stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea, and probiotics can ease these side effects.

Some studies suggest that probiotics may be good for children. One study found that children who were given probiotics every day for 3 months were less likely to have respiratory problems and diarrhea than children who were given a placebo.

On the other hand, some researchers note that probiotics may not have much effect on children. In a Healthline article about probiotics, Dr. According to the Mayo Clinic , good probiotic sources include fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kombucha, and kimchi.

While probiotics are also available as dietary supplements, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate supplements. So, how can parents get their child to follow a dietary plan on a regular basis? One of the best ways to promote healthy eating habits is to have the whole family follow good dietary practices.

Purchasing more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole foods for everyone to consume while reducing the number of soft drinks and processed foods you purchase allows your entire household to promote a healthier lifestyle.

The problem with eating a standard American diet SAD is that the high fats, complex carbs, and sugars become addictive, and the discomfort felt by eating these food is combated by wanting to eat more of them.

Likewise, eating healthy meals together as a family shows your teenager that consuming a healthy diet is a normal practice that everyone should take part in. And since this helps promote a healthy gut in all family members, everyone benefits. Dealing with mental health issues is always concerning.

However, discovering the connection between mental health and gut health helps you be more proactive when helping your teenager through struggles with depression, anxiety, and other mental and emotional conditions. Determining If Your Child Has a Gastrointestinal Disorder Your child may be showing issues with their GI tract that are affecting their emotional and mental well-being.

What Parents Can Do To Promote Better Gut and Mental Health While seeing your teenager in mental or emotional distress can be alarming, the link between gut and mental health offers parents a way to help their children feel better not only through seeking treatment and therapy but also through healthy eating.

Make healthier diet and lifestyle decisions Adopting a healthier diet improves overall well-being and gut health, leading to a better gut-brain connection and improved mental health.

Consume probiotics In a Healthline article about probiotics, Dr. Final Thoughts to Consider Dealing with mental health issues is always concerning. Related Posts Mental Health Care Tips for Dads with Teens The Connection Between Depression and a Messy Room.