Prebiotic intake reduces the waking cortisol response and alters emotional bias in healthy volunteers

This randomized controlled trial studied the effects of prebiotics (B-GOS and FOS) on stress and emotional processing in 45 healthy adults over three weeks. Participants taking B-GOS had lower cortisol levels upon waking, indicating reduced stress. They also showed less attentional focus on negative emotions in a task compared to those taking FOS or a placebo. However, no changes in subjective stress or anxiety scores were observed. These findings suggest B-GOS prebiotics may positively influence stress and emotional regulation through gut-brain interactions.

Consider incorporating prebiotic-rich foods like bananas, onions, or supplements with B-GOS into your diet to support stress reduction and emotional well-being. This advice is based on a small, short-term study showing reduced cortisol and improved emotional bias. While promising, the findings need replication in larger trials to confirm benefits. Prebiotics can complement a balanced diet and stress-management strategies but are not a substitute for mental health treatment.