How antibiotics impact mental health and how GI Assist could help

A single course of antibiotics may do more than just kill harmful bacteria—it could significantly impact your mental health. Emerging research suggests that just one round of antibiotics may increase your risk of depression and anxiety or even trigger panic attacks by up to 25% over the next 12 months. The reason? Your gut microbiome—a complex community of trillions of microorganisms—plays a much larger role in regulating your brain than previously understood.

Antibiotics and Mental Health: What's the Connection?

Antibiotics are life-saving drugs, but they don’t discriminate between harmful pathogens and beneficial gut bacteria. By wiping out good bacteria, they can disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome—also known as dysbiosis—which has been linked to an increased risk of mood disorders.

A 2020 study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that people who had taken at least one course of antibiotics in the past year had a significantly higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, or panic disorders. The more courses taken, the higher the risk. Even a single round was associated with a 25% increase in the likelihood of anxiety and depressive symptoms in the following 12 months. 

The Gut-Brain Axis: Why Your Microbiome Matters

The gut-brain axis is a two-way communication system between your gastrointestinal tract and your central nervous system. Gut bacteria play a critical role in producing neurotransmitters like:

• Serotonin (about 90% of which is made in the gut)
• GABA (anxiety-reducing neurotransmitter)
• Dopamine (mood, motivation)

When antibiotics disrupt this microbial balance, it can lead to reduced production of these mood-regulating chemicals, increased inflammation, and impaired immune signaling—all of which are linked to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

Signs Your Gut Might Be Out of Balance After Antibiotics

• Increased bloating, constipation, or diarrhea

• Food sensitivities or cravings (especially sugar)

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or low energy

• Sleep disturbances

• Brain fog or lack of focus

• If you notice these symptoms after a course of antibiotics, your gut-brain axis may be out of sync.

How to Protect and Restore Gut Health During and After Antibiotic Use

While antibiotics can’t always be avoided, you can take steps to minimize their impact and support gut recovery:

1. Take Probiotics Wisely

Research shows that taking a high-quality probiotic during and after antibiotic treatment may reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated anxiety and digestive issues. Look for strains like:

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (supports mood) *used in GIAssist 

• Bifidobacterium longum (calms the nervous system)

• Saccharomyces boulardii (a yeast that survives antibiotics)

Tip: Take probiotics a few hours apart from your antibiotics to reduce interference.

2. Eat Prebiotic-Rich Foods

Prebiotics are the "fertilizer" for good bacteria. Foods high in prebiotic fiber include:

• Garlic

• Onions

• Leeks

• Asparagus

• Bananas (especially slightly green ones)

• Oats

• Chicory root

These help healthy microbes regrow and outcompete harmful bacteria.

3. Embrace Fermented Foods

Fermented foods naturally contain live probiotics and can help repopulate your gut:

• Yogurt (unsweetened)

• Kefir

• Sauerkraut

• Kimchi

• Miso

• Tempeh

Start slow if you're not used to these—your gut may need time to adjust.

4. Avoid Processed Foods and Sugar

Sugar and highly processed foods can feed harmful bacteria and yeasts, further disrupting your gut. During recovery, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods, including:

• Leafy greens

• Healthy fats (like olive oil, avocados)

• Lean proteins

• Bone broth (great for healing the gut lining)

5. Consider Gut-Healing Supplements

Depending on your symptoms, certain supplements may help:

• L-glutamine – helps repair the gut lining *Used in GI Assist

• Zinc carnosine – supports intestinal barrier function

• Omega-3s – anti-inflammatory and brain-supportive

• Magnesium – calms the nervous system and supports digestion *Used in GI Assist

"So far so good! I have had GI issues for the last 30 years. (Crohn's) I am currently in remission, but still have sensitivities to certain things. I do not take any prescription meds at this time, as I try to keep my treatment as natural as possible. I was hesitant to order GI Assist, but I contacted Protea and they gave me confidence to give it a try. I have been using before bed for about a week now. I definitely sleep better and the other ingredients have been no problem with my other issues. I am also using the Vibrant and love that as well!! Thanks Protea, I will be ordering again!" -DeAnn R.

Small Actions, Big Impact

It’s easy to overlook the ripple effects of a single antibiotic course, especially when you're focused on treating an infection. But the science is clear: antibiotics can leave a lasting imprint on your gut and your mind. Understanding and nurturing the gut-brain connection can help you reclaim your mental clarity, emotional stability, and digestive health.

Taking GI Assist could benefit during and post antibiotic use because of unique blend of ingredients, which include L-glutamine for gut lining repair, magnesium for relaxation and digestive function, and probiotics to balance the microbiome. 

GI Assist provides comprehensive support for gut health. These ingredients work synergistically to promote cellular recovery, reduce inflammation, and improve overall digestive function.

 Whether you're in the middle of an antibiotic course or recovering months later, investing in your microbiome is one of the most powerful things you can do for your long-term well-being—both physically and mentally.

The contents of this blog should not be taken as medical advice.  It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem-nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician.  Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

JAMA Psychiatry (2020): "Association Between Use of Antibiotics and Risk of Depression and Anxiety"

Frontiers in Psychiatry: “The Role of Gut Microbiota in the Gut–Brain Axis”

Harvard Health Publishing: “Probiotics and mental health: A clinical perspective”