A recent study published in Nutrients explores how combining caloric restriction (CR) with clinical psychological intervention (CPI) impacts the gut microbiome and mental health in women. Conducted at La Pura Women’s Health Resort, the study involved 41 women undergoing two weeks of CR and CPI or a single stress prevention lecture. Participants were divided into groups following either a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) or the F.X. Mayr diet (FXM), with additional psychological support or lectures.
The research revealed that both CR diets led to notable changes in the gut microbiome. The FXM diet, in particular, resulted in increased levels of Oscillibacter, a genus linked with improved mental health. Notably, the study found significant reductions in Firmicutes and Lachnospiraceae/Ruminococcaceae families, and increases in Akkermansia and Odoribacter. These microbial shifts were associated with positive mental health outcomes and reduced stress.
This study highlights the potential of integrating dietary and psychological interventions to enhance mental health through gut microbiome modulation.
