There is a connection for sure, but it is super complex and there is a lot more to discover about the biome and mental health. Scientists are beginning to view the biome as an organ due to its ability to produce neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are produced (at least partially) in the gut. Many antidepressants that are prescribed are SSRIs, or selective serotonin re uptake inhibitors, which basically increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. By eating foods that foster serotonin production in the gut, theoretically more serotonin would be available for the brain, but it is not a totally linear correlation, as serotonin in the gut does not necessarily make it to the brain. However eating healthier (lots of plants, cultured foods, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids) is associated with improved gut and mental health. Eating fewer processed foods is also associated with better gut and mental health. It’s interesting though that many people eat comfort food to cope with grief/stress/trauma and then feel guilty about it (myself included). There’s also research that shows cortisol (a stress hormone) can negatively impact gut health, which may be why some people feel the need to evacuate their bowls when they’re scared (colloquial known as “shitting one’s pants”). It is interesting to think that all these little microbes, hormones, and neurotransmitters are somehow partially pulling the strings in our decision making, and yet the compilation of this molecular symphony is perceived as free will. This concludes my ted talk.