Synbiotic supplements and a brain-friendly diet linked to depression and anxiety in pregnant and new mothers with gestational diabetes: a three-group trial plan

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects a significant number of pregnant women and is associated with a two to four times higher prevalence of anxiety and depression compared to healthy pregnant women.

• Psychobiotics may enhance cognitive and emotional function by influencing the gut-brain connection.
• Synbiotic supplementation and a psychobiotic diet are being evaluated for their potential protective effects against psychological disorders during pregnancy.
• The main focus is on measuring antenatal depression and pregnancy-related anxiety at 38 weeks of gestation.
• Secondary measurements will include postpartum depression and anxiety at 4-6 weeks post-birth, as well as maternal metabolic health at 38 weeks.

Simplified