Follow the gut: A pilot study examining the feasibility and acceptability of probiotics supplements and its impact on stress responses and burnout in direct-care nurses.

BACKGROUND

Work-related stress has adverse effects on individuals and healthcare organizations. Probiotics, live microorganisms such as Lactobacillus species, have shown promise in improving gut health and potentially enhancing cognitive and emotional responses to stress. However, their efficacy on occupational stress remains limited. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of probiotics in modulating physiological and psychological stress responses among nurses.

METHOD: One-arm, open-label, pretest-posttest design was used. Participants were nurses exhibiting moderate to high levels of stress and received a 12-week supply of commercially available oral probiotics. Data collection encompassed hair, blood, and survey assessments of self-reported stress, burnout, and sleep quality. Demographic information, work environment characteristics, and participant experiences with probiotics were also gathered.

RESULTS

A total of 27 nurses participated. Among those completing the study (n = 15), physical stress symptoms, perceived stress, and burnout significantly decreased, while sleep quality improved. Serum levels of Interleukin-13, Interleukin-1, Interferon-ϒ, and tumor necrosis factor-α significantly decreased while other biomarkers showed no changes. Probiotics acceptability was high. Reasons for discontinuing probiotics included gastrointestinal side effects and emotional disturbances.

CONCLUSION

Findings highlight probiotics as a promising adjunct for managing chronic stress and inflammation, supporting the mind-body connection and the role of dietary supplements in promoting nurse well-being. As an increasing number of people are turning to alternative therapies to help manage their stress, it is important to examine the role of probiotics in moderating the detrimental health effects of chronic work stress.