Could one missing microbe in your gut be the reason for persistent low mood, anxiety, or inflammation?
In this video, Dr. Eric Berg and Dr. William Davis (the author of Wheat Belly) discusses Lactobacillus reuteri — a powerful microbe with wide-ranging health benefits. He explains how modern diets, stress, medications, antibiotics, and environmental toxins have weakened the human microbiome, leading to reduced levels of beneficial bacteria and corresponding increases in depression, SIBO, allergies, leaky gut, and more.
Key Points from the Video:
The Gut-Brain Connection:
The gut and brain communicate via the vagus nerve. A damaged gut microbiome can influence mood, and psychological stress can disrupt gut function.
Causes of Microbiome Depletion:
Antibiotics, herbicides (like glyphosate), sugar, processed food, alcohol, and stress all damage the gut flora. This leads to reduced neurotransmitter production and inflammation.
The Role of Lactobacillus reuteri:
Originally studied by Dr. William Davis and inspired by the work of Dr. Irina Conboy, L. reuteri has been shown in both animal and human studies to:
- Improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Boost immune function
- Speed up wound healing
- Improve skin quality and elasticity
- Enhance muscle tone and mitochondrial function
- Increase oxytocin levels — supporting social connection and bonding
Our Perspective at Healthworks Nutrition Centre
The content Dr. Berg and Dr. Williams share closely mirrors what we observe daily in practice. The connection between gut health and emotional well-being is undeniable. Many clients come to us struggling with anxiety, depression, fatigue, or chronic inflammation — and often, the root cause is microbial imbalance.
We also emphasize Lactobacillus reuteri in our approach to restoring the gut-brain axis, especially in clients with:
- Low energy or immune function
- Unexplained mood changes
- Digestive discomfort
- Skin issues
- Food sensitivities or suspected SIBO
We stress the importance of prebiotics, like inulin and other fermentable fibers. These feed beneficial microbes and create a gut environment where they can thrive. For many people, adding probiotics without prebiotics is like planting seeds in sand.
How to Know If Your Gut Needs Support
A live cell analysis appointment at Healthworks Nutrition Centre can give you a real-time window into your health, showing signs of:
- Inflammation
- Poor digestion
- Microbial imbalance
- Nutrient deficiencies
We use this tool to develop customized health plans that support gut health, mental clarity, and resilience.
If you're ready to take control of your microbiome and support your mood naturally, we invite you to stop by our clinic in Sherwood Park or browse our range of probiotics, prebiotics, and gut repair formulas online: