Psychological Trauma and Gut Health: Unlocking the Potential of Dietary Interventions to Modulate the Gut–Brain Axis

Mar 18, 2026Journal of psychosocial nursing and mental health services

How Psychological Trauma and Diet May Influence the Gut-Brain Connection

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Abstract

Psychological trauma disrupts gut microbiota composition and function, potentially increasing gut permeability.

Trauma is associated with inflammation and impaired mental health due to changes in gut microbiota.
The gut-brain axis is notably affected by psychological trauma.
Stress-related imbalances in gut microbiota may worsen psychological disorders, including depression and anxiety.
Dietary strategies, such as prebiotics, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory diets, could help restore gut health.
An integrated approach combining psychological and nutritional interventions may enhance health outcomes for individuals affected by trauma.

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PURPOSE: The current study examined the profound effect of psychological trauma on gut microbiota and identified dietary strategies to mitigate its adverse effects on gut health.

METHOD: A narrative review was performed.

RESULTS: Trauma disrupts the composition and function of gut microbiota, often resulting in increased gut permeability, which triggers inflammation and impairs mental health. The gut-brain axis is a critical pathway affected by trauma. Stress-induced dysbiosis exacerbates psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Nutritional interventions, including prebiotics, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory diets, show promise in restoring microbial balance and supporting the gut-brain axis in individuals affected by trauma.

CONCLUSION: This review underscores the potential of an integrated approach combining psychology and nutrition to enhance health outcomes. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to further unravel the complex dynamics among trauma, gut health, and mental well-being. Psychiatric-mental health nurses can embed gut-informed education into trauma-informed care; collaborate with dietitians; use brief tools to assess sleep, stress, and gastrointestinal symptoms; provide culturally sensitive, cost-effective guidance; and coordinate interdisciplinary follow up to sustain behavior change.

Psychological Trauma and Gut Health: Unlocking the Potential of Dietary Interventions to Modulate the Gut–Brain Axis

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