I've done some reasearch on which probiotics would be the best to help with my mood, as I've seen a few articles on how our gut microbiome is where our feel-good chemicals, like dopamine and serotinin, are produced.
From Google / A.I.:
Both serotonin and dopamine are produced in the gut. While often associated with the brain, a significant portion of these neurotransmitters are actually synthesized in the gastrointestinal tract. Specifically, about 90% of the body's serotonin and roughly 50% of its dopamine are produced in the gut.
You can also see some information in the 2 articles below (you can see them a little further down the page....just click on them).
In the past, I bought the Garden of Life "Mood" probiotic for my Mom, but it was a little pricey. I just did some research on the different strains of probiotics that affect a person's mood, and this Women's Probiotic by Doctor's Recipes, shown below, is not only a bit more affordable, but it also has all those mood-bosting strains, plus lots of reviews by people who say it helped them to feel better. I'm copying and pasting those reviews (with the word "mood"), further down the page. This is the one I'm going to get:
Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic, 60 Caps 50 Billion CFU 16 Strains, with Organic Cranberry, Digestive Immune Vaginal & Urinary Health, Shelf Stable, Delayed Release, No Soy Gluten Dairy
Here are some of the studies on the probiotic / mood connection, that showed up on Google:
Missing: boost | Show results with: boost
This is what came up when I did a Google Search to see what are the best mood-boosting strains of probiotics:
Several probiotics strains have shown promise in supporting mood, with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium being the most studied and effective in this area. Specifically, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Lactobacillus plantarum are frequently cited for their potential benefits in reducing anxiety, depression, and stress.
Specific strains and their potential benefits:
- Lactobacillus helveticus: May enhance mood and reduce stress, particularly when combined with B. longum.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus: May affect GABA receptors and the vagus nerve, promoting feelings of calm.
- Bifidobacterium longum: May act as an antidepressant, reduce cortisol, and improve mood.
- Lactobacillus plantarum: May help with anxiety symptoms by boosting dopamine and reducing inflammation.
- Bifidobacterium bifidum: Another strain with potential benefits for mood regulation.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus: May help with various mood-related symptoms.
- Lactobacillus casei: Can be effective in promoting general health and potentially alleviating mood disorders.
- B. Breve: Another strain with potential benefits for mood regulation.
Other considerations:
- Consider incorporating prebiotics, which are fibers that feed probiotics, into your diet. Galactooligosaccharide is one example of a prebiotic.
- Combining multiple strains can offer broader benefits for gut health and potentially improve mood.
- Individualized approach:Probiotic needs can vary, so it's important to consider your individual needs and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
- Research suggests that certain probiotic combinations, like L. helveticus and B. longum, may be particularly beneficial for individuals with major depressive disorder.
In summary, while many probiotics can support mood, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, particularly L. helveticus, L. rhamnosus, B. longum, and L. plantarum, are often cited for their potential mood-boosting effects. Combining strains and incorporating prebiotics may offer additional benefits, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
I was happy to see that the
has all of those mood-boosting probiotic strains, mentioned above. So I guess it should be no surprise that there are a good amount of reviews by women who said it helped boost their mood : ).
From the United States
- Reviewed in the United States on July 15, 2025Okay, so hear me out... I am in my early 40s and hit a moment of "I need to do somerhing because the way I'm feeling right now ain't it!" And I saw these ads for probiotics and thought hmmm okay but which?! I hadn't a clue where to begin or how so I decided to go with a brand that was low cost but with high positive reviews. And these did not disappoint!
I am on day 4 and I have already noticed reduced swelling in my ankles (problematic after I broke my back a few years ago), I am substantially less bloated (my shorts were sliding down all day today and I am NOT a thin girl), and somehow my mood has improved and I currently feel a lot less of the perimenopausal fluctuation between joy and rage lol. Oh! And the weird dryness and discomfort that had started happening are both totally gone! Y'all know what and where I mean, premenopausal sisters.
So for now, it's a win! The only downside so far is I suddenly have chin acne?! I am one of those adults who has never outgrown being acne prone but 4 spots popped up yesterday all of a sudden and I am not sure if they're related but I am gonna stay the course... maybe it is a direct effect of these wonder pills helping my body work out whatever has been going on with my gut??? We shall see! But I don't usually have breakouts in this area... - Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2025These are the best probiotics I’ve ever had they even make my mood better !!!!!! I get energy throughout the day and they keep my stomach from getting bloated I’ve noticed I don’t get the evening crash as often anymore……. ladies please get them they really work ….I noticed the change by day 3!!!!!
- Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2023Doctor's Recipes Women's Probiotics have proven invaluable for my mom, especially for those over 50. Specifically tailored to address pH balance, enhance gut health, and contribute to mood and immunity, these probiotics offer a comprehensive approach to women's well-being.
What sets them apart is not only their effectiveness but also their pocket-friendly price point, ensuring that investing in your health doesn't break the bank. Supported by scientific research, these probiotics are a reliable choice for promoting a balanced digestive system.
Moreover, the convenience of easily swallowable pills adds to the appeal, and the absence of any unpleasant aftertaste makes them a hassle-free addition to daily health routines. If you're looking for an affordable yet high-quality women's probiotic, Doctor's Recipes Women's Probiotics come highly recommended for their holistic benefits and budget-friendly approach. - Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2022I used to get UTI symptoms often and UTIs at least twice a year. I was desperate for anything that could fix this because I learned I more susceptible to them. Probiotics were suggested so I ran to Amazon. Spent a couple hours scrolling through probiotics and their reviews and came across these. I've ordered them multiple times. They absolutely work for me. BUT I'm learning the hard way taking 2 is too much for my gut. After I adjusted to just 1 a day, I started taking 2. I've been trying to tough it out but I'm getting tired of being nauseated and gassy. It's gone down but I don't know if I'm gonna try to hack it a couple more days. One did the trick. They also made my mood A LOT better honestly. I do have to contact the supplier because this bottle smells funny...
- Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2021I’ve been on probiotics for probably 2 years now and especially the women’s health ones. I went through a bout of chronic UTIs and the doctor said I should take a women’s probiotic. I got on one that was 6 billion CFUs but I started with half the dose. I encourage everyone to start gradually. These are quite a jump even from my 6 billion but I’m starting with half of this bottles dose so getting 25 billion. I noticed a difference within the first day and actually felt energized! I did have a slight headache but I’ve read that can be a side effect of the probiotics actually going to work and getting rid of bad bacteria. My headache was gone by the second and third day and it’s been good! I’ll have to update if it gets worse over time but I highly doubt it. I like them a lot so far and will continue to use them.
I also love all the different strands that are in this brand. Several of them are known to be good for reducing anxiety and depression and boosting mood! - Reviewed in the United States on April 21, 2021This is my 3rd day on this supplement, so far its good! Feel great, energized and better moods & less hungry. I take this with a homemade protein shake & a fiber rich cereal. After this meal I only have dinner. Don't feel hunger as I used to in the past. Too early to say anything about bowel movements, but at this moment its very slow compared to the past but I think this will change as my body's microbiome flourishes plus this could also be because I eat less. Will update in a month.
- Reviewed in the United States on March 12, 2021I started taking these probiotics but then I got lazy and my stomach started acting up so I started taking them again and for the first few days I felt really bloated and gassy but after that, I felt so much better! I’ve noticed that it really affects my mood, too. I suffer from depression and I know that your gut health can affect your mental health and these probiotics have really helped with that. I notice a big difference in how I feel when I don’t take them so I always make it a point to take them daily. I’ve taken various supplements but this is one of the few that really makes a difference in my daily life! Will definitely keep buying!
- Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2020After years of bad stomach issues (ie gas, bloating, diarrhea), several visits to specialists and diet/supplement changes, I was at the end of my rope. Norhing seemed to work at all to make me feel better, and even with a dairy free, gluten free, almost completely sugar free diet, my issues persisted. Someone in my family suggested taking this along with the diet and exercise changes my doctors had insisted upon. Within 2 weeks, I stopped having diarrhea every time I ate, and my stomach pain started to go away. I have now been using this as recommended (2 capsules daily) for 4 months, and I have no more stomach complaints. I have even lost weight and my fatigue, headaches, and mood swings have also completely gone away.
- Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2021I have taken many supplements over the years but I am ready to order my 3rd bottle of Doctor's recipe as I find the blend of strains is just right for me. I take my Probiotic before bed so that it helps my sleep and works effectively as my body rests. For women, an unsettled microbiome, can lead to Candida overgrowth and a weak immune system .
Try Doctor's recipe and you'll be a believer .! - Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2021I notice an improvement in my overall mood and belly bloating when taking this daily I have also noticed my bodily functions being more timely and clean. This is my third bottle so I can say with confidence I will continue to order. My only issue with it is that the pill floats in your mouth when you try to swallow it.
- Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2020This works great! After the first week my hot flashes stopped my body started balancing and the swelling in my stomach began to go down. My mood began to improve and my energy level has begun to improve. I do not feel as foggy anymore.
I recommended it to my best friend who loves it!175 people found this helpful - Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2021I really love this product. Very affordable and has helped my stomach. Also helping my mood to stay balanced and some other skin issues that I have.
- Reviewed in the United States on June 7, 2025I had no idea the benefits of good gut health until taking this probiotic. I've noticed better sleep, regular bowel movements, increased mood and energy. I would definitely recommend.
- Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2021I originally started talking this due to taking an antibiotic and not wanting to get a yeast infection. Not only did it help me not get one it has improved my overall mental health. I've always heard there is a link between your gut and brain but didn't believe it until I took these. I have more energy, better mood/less irritability and just over all feel GOOD. If you are in need of a probiotic GET THIS ONE!
Please note, these reviews below came up in the same search, but they are for a different type of probiotic from the same company. They are a bit more pricey, but I am stil including a link for the product, plus the reviews, for anyone who wants to know.
Doctor's Recipes Probiotics for Women, 100 Billion CFU, 18 Probiotic Strains, Prebiotics, Cranberry, P-5-P & VC, Vaginal, Digestive, Mood, Urinary Tract Health, Shelf-Stable, 30 Vegan Caps
- Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2025Style: 100 Billion CFU P5P (30 Count Pack of 1)Amazon Vine Customer Review of Free Product( What's this? )The Doctor's Recipes Women's Probiotics work wonderfully for me. They are generally flavorless and don't have a strong odor either. They are shelf stable, which is a definite benefit. They aid in proper digestion. The label says they also support mood balance & promote urinary & vaginal health. The pills are in capsule form, easy to swallow, free of common allergens & vegan. One note: the cap is a simple twist top & is not child resistant. I'm happy with how they've worked for me & would buy them in the future.
- Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2025Style: 100 Billion CFU P5P (30 Count Pack of 1)Amazon Vine Customer Review of Free Product( What's this? )Let’s talk about lady parts. Awkward? Maybe. Necessary? Absolutely. And frankly, the delicate ecosystem down there deserves more attention than your needy houseplants. These probiotics? Game. Changer. They’re not going to make you spontaneously break into a Broadway musical about vaginal health, but they will make you feel… balanced. In a non-yoga-studio-chanting kind of way. Digestive health improved? Check. Mood? Surprisingly less stabby. Urinary tract? Let’s just say, no news is good news in that department. And the cranberry and P-5-P? Sounds fancy and vaguely important. Look, I don't pretend to understand the science. All I know is these little capsules are like a tiny army of good bacteria waging war on the forces of feminine discomfort, and for that, they get five enthusiastic stars. Go forth and flourish, ladies. And maybe buy these probiotics.
- Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2025Style: 100 Billion CFU P5P (30 Count Pack of 1)Amazon Vine Customer Review of Free Product( What's this? )This is one of the most complete women’s probiotic formulas I’ve tried. It not only helps with digestion and bloating, but I’ve also felt a big improvement in mood and energy levels. The cranberry and Vitamin C are perfect additions for urinary and vaginal health, and I love that it includes P5P for better B6 absorption. I feel more balanced overall, and my gut has never felt more comfortable. Excellent value, high potency, and definitely one I’ll stick with.
