That anxiety may be in your gut, not in your head (McMaster University)

[Tace]

McMaster research finds link between gut bacteria and behaviour

May 17, 2011 -- HAMILTON, Ont. (McMasters University) -- For the first time, researchers at McMaster University have conclusive evidence that bacteria residing in the gut influence brain chemistry and behaviour.

The findings are important because several common types of gastrointestinal disease, including irritable bowel syndrome, are frequently associated with anxiety or depression. In addition there has been speculation that some psychiatric disorders, such as late onset autism, may be associated with an abnormal bacterial content in the gut.

"The exciting results provide stimulus for further investigating a microbial component to the causation of behavioural illnesses," said Stephen Collins, professor of medicine and associate dean research, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine. Collins and Premysl Bercik, assistant professor of medicine, undertook the research in the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute.

The research appears in the online edition of the journal Gastroenterology.

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http://worldnewstrust.com/all-content/that-anxiety-may-be-in-your-gut-not-in-your-head-mcmaster-university.html

[polly7]

1. K and R

[SheilaT]

2. Not to cast doubt on the research,

and I don't have IBS, but I can readily see where having that would make me anxious or depressed. Maybe even both.