The supplement combines zinc, iodine and magnesium with Probi’s patented lactic acid Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9, a strain backed by multiple clinical studies demonstrating positive effects on memory, concentration and fatigue.
“The strength in the human studies done is that they all confirm that intake of HEAL9 has a positive effect on mental health,” Gunilla Önning, senior science manager at Probi, told Nutraingredients.
“The effect has been shown in different populations like in subjects with acute stress, with moderate stress, in subjects with old age with low grade inflammation and in subjects with mild-moderate depression. This indicates that HEAL9 supports the mental health in a broad way and in many situations.”
Advances in psychobiotics research
Scientific interest in psychobiotics—probiotics that provide mental health benefits through interactions along the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA)—has increased significantly in the last decade.
Studies show that the MGBA controls complex interactions between the brain, the enteric nervous system in the gut, the gut-associated immune system and the enteric neuroendocrine system. Specific strains and bacterial formulations have been found to have psychotropic-like effects that may be beneficial for anxiety, depression and cognitive function. Additionally, they may offer a lower risk of allergies and less dependence than psychotropic drugs.
Although evidence suggests that psychobiotics can support metabolic and mental health, the exact mechanisms are yet to be elucidated, and AI technology has the potential to do this. Furthermore, a recent systematic review suggests that studies need to adopt more rigorous research methodologies to enhance the reliability of their findings.
Evidence for HEAL9
Since its beginnings in 1991 at Sweden’s Lund University, Probi has grown into a global company focused exclusively on researching, manufacturing and delivering probiotics for supplements and functional food.
Scientists from Lund University and other institutions have shown that HEAL9 may support mental health in several clinical studies.
For example, a recent study showed that HEAL9 improves cognition, mood, and sleep in moderately stressed subjects, and a 2020 study indicated the strain reduces inflammatory markers in an acute stress test on chronically stressed individuals.
Another recent study from Italy found that HEAL9 may help reduce cognitive impairment and inflammation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Over eight weeks, the probiotic was shown to alleviate cognitive decline, protect the gut barrier, normalize digestion and reduce brain plaque accumulation.
“We are proud to launch a product supported by multiple clinical studies that meets the growing need for mental well-being in today's society,” said Alexia Wilhelmsson, marketing manager at Probi.