Heart and Mind (Mar 2024)
A Narrative Review on the Interplay between Blood Pressure, Anxiety/Depression, and Probiotics: Unraveling the Underlying Mechanisms
Abstract
High blood pressure, or hypertension (HTN), is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and various chronic conditions. Recent research suggests that nutraceuticals can enhance the effectiveness of conventional pharmacological therapies. As a result, there is increasing interest in using therapeutic diets and diverse compounds to complement these treatments. Depression is a globally prevalent and debilitating disorder. Anxiety, on the other hand, is a state of heightened emotion that involves both psychological and physical changes, even without a clear cause. In addition to standard therapies, alternative approaches, including adjunctive therapies, are being explored. HTN and anxiety are closely linked conditions. Anxiety can temporarily increase blood pressure due to the body’s natural “fight or flight” response. However, if anxiety persists, it can lead to chronic HTN. Conversely, HTN can also increase the risk of anxiety by causing physical symptoms that can trigger anxiety. Moreover, medications commonly prescribed for HTN may have side effects that worsen anxiety symptoms. It is crucial to identify and offer affordable treatments and prevention methods for both conditions. Recently, there has been discussion about the use of probiotic supplements as an alternative treatment for reducing blood pressure and anxiety. These supplements contain active microorganisms that can provide benefits to the body when consumed in sufficient quantities. Numerous studies have explored the potential benefits of probiotics for individuals with HTN. Similarly, several studies have investigated the impact of probiotics on anxiety. However, the relationship between anxiety, HTN, and the effects of probiotics on these disorders is still a topic of debate. Given the conflicting evidence and the interplay between anxiety and blood pressure, we have chosen to create a comprehensive review article that thoroughly examines and provides a detailed description of the potential mechanisms involved in this connection.
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