A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial performed at one centre in Italy to explore the ability of a multistrain probiotic mixture, to modulate markers of inflammation and intestinal barrier function and gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy volunteers with self-reported anxiety.

Inclusion Criteria:

Eligible subjects were healthy men and women, 20-35 years old, with a STAI scale, form Y, module 1 (state anxiety) score of ≥ 35 and ≥40, for men and women, respectively.

Exclusion Criteria:

Most important exclusion criteria were history or diagnosis of GI disease, oral antibiotics within 30 days prior to the screening visit, and use of drugs, food or herbal supplements for digestive symptoms.

double-blind