According to a new study released by the University of Baltimore, teenagers who consume more fermented foods that consist of probiotics, were less stressed compared to teens who didn't.

It was found in the study that more impact was found in teens who have genetic risk factors for social anxiety.

According to William and Mary Psychology professor and study author Matthew Hilimire, "It is likely that the probiotics in the fermented foods are favorably changing the environment in the gut, and changes in the gut in turn influence social anxiety. I think that it is absolutely fascinating that the microorganisms in your gut can influence your mind".

The results of the study were found on the basis of a self-report survey conducted on 700 college students. The survey was conducted in the fall of 2014. It was found that students who self-reported more exercise were also having less stress. However, more research is needed to be conducted to make sure that the self-reports are correct.

Hilimire said that when similar findings in the experimental follow-up are assumed, it suggests that one could expand additional traditional therapies with fermented foods together with dietary changes and exercise.

Researchers are looking forward to explore extra mind-gut links; they will be studying whether there are any links between probiotics and autism next.

Sauerkraut and pickles containing probiotics could be purchased from stores; the products are usually stored in the refrigerated aisle. One can also make fermented foods at home; the Oregonian/OregonLive also provides recipes for homemade sauerkraut and yogurt.