Assessment of optimal combinations of therapeutic probiotics for depression, anxiety, and stress

BACKGROUND: Accumulating data show that probiotics may be beneficial for reducing depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms. However, the best combinations and species of probiotics have not been identified. The objective of our study was to assess the most effective combinations and components of different probiotics through network meta-analysis. METHOD: A systematic search of four databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase, was conducted from inception to 11 January 2024. The GRADE framework was used to assess the quality of evidence contributing to each network estimate. RESULTS: (SMD = -0.41; 95% CI -0.73 to -0.10) had a positive effect on depression. CONCLUSION: had a similar effect. With few direct comparisons available between probiotic species, this NMA may be instrumental in shaping the guidelines for probiotic treatment of psychological disorders.