Probiotics as functional foods: How probiotics can alleviate the symptoms of neurological disabilities

Biomed Pharmacother. 2023 Jul:163:114816. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114816. Epub 2023 May 8.

Abstract

Neurological disorders are diseases of the central nervous system with progressive loss of nervous tissue. One of the most difficult problems associated with neurological disorders is that there is no clear treatment for these diseases. In this review, the physiopathology of some neurodegenerative diseases, etiological causes, drugs used and their side effects, and finally the role of probiotics in controlling the symptoms of these neurodegenerative diseases are presented. Recently, researchers have focused more on the microbiome and the gut-brain axis, which may play a critical role in maintaining brain health. Probiotics are among the most important bacteria that have positive effects on the balance of homeostasis via influencing the microbiome. Other important functions of probiotics in alleviating symptoms of neurological disorders include anti-inflammatory properties, short-chain fatty acid production, and the production of various neurotransmitters. The effects of probiotics on the control of abnormalities seen in neurological disorders led to probiotics being referred to as "psychobiotic. Given the important role of the gut-brain axis and the imbalance of the gut microbiome in the etiology and symptoms of neurological disorders, probiotics could be considered safe agents that positively affect the balance of the microbiome as complementary treatment options for neurological disorders.

Keywords: Functional foods; Inflammation; Neurological disabilities; Probiotics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiology
  • Central Nervous System
  • Functional Food
  • Humans
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases* / therapy
  • Probiotics* / therapeutic use