In an investigation, researchers conducted a pilot study exploring the impact of the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium breve M-16 V on human mood and sleep quality. Through a randomized controlled trial involving 30 participants, the study administered B. breve M-16 V over six weeks while evaluating mood states before and after ingestion, utilizing near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) alongside traditional subjective assessments. Results indicated a significant reduction in heart rate under stress and an improvement in mood and sleep scores, particularly among participants exhibiting high anxiety levels. Additionally, an increase in the levels of the GABA-like substance pipecolic acid in stool samples suggested a potential mechanism through which the probiotic influences mood regulation. These findings illuminate the promising role of B. breve M-16 V in modulating the gut-brain axis, offering potential avenues for innovative interventions aimed at enhancing emotional well-being and sleep quality through targeted probiotic supplementation.
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166432823005387?via%3Dihub
