Gut Microbiome Linked to Depression and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents

Strategic Insights -

Research from the University of Toronto has investigated the relationship between the gut microbiome and internalizing symptoms, depression, or anxiety in children and adolescents. The study, which included a systematic review and meta-analysis, found an association between decreased gut microbial diversity and greater depression symptoms in adults. However, findings on the relationship between the gut microbiome and depression or anxiety in children and adolescents are mixed, and further research is needed to explore the role of the gut microbiome in the genesis and treatment of internalizing disorders.

Key Takeaways:

  • Decreased gut microbial diversity is associated with greater depression symptoms in adults.
  • The relationship between the gut microbiome and depression or anxiety in children and adolescents is not fully understood and warrants further investigation.
  • Larger studies using comprehensive analytical approaches are needed to explore the role of the gut microbiome in the genesis and treatment of internalizing disorders.
  • The study examined seven databases for peer-reviewed studies on the gut microbiome and internalizing symptoms in children and adolescents.
  • The research included a team of authors from the University of Toronto, led by Flora Zhang from the Nutrition and Dietetics Program, Clinical Public Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health.
  • The keywords for this news article include: Canada, Toronto, Pediatrics, Anxiety Disorders, Health and Medicine, North and Central America, Mental Health Diseases and Conditions.

Statistics:

  • The study searched seven databases for peer-reviewed studies on the gut microbiome and internalizing symptoms in children and adolescents.
  • The research included a systematic review and meta-analysis with youth consultation.
  • The study found an association between decreased gut microbial diversity and greater depression symptoms in adults.
  • The findings suggest that the gut microbiome may play a role in the genesis and treatment of internalizing disorders in children and adolescents.
  • The study highlighted the need for larger, more comprehensive studies to explore this relationship further.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers from University of Toronto Report Details of New Studies and Findings in the Area of Anxiety Disorders (The gut microbiome and child and adolescent depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis with youth consultation). Health & Medicine Week. October 31, 2025; p 651.