Poo power: Calgary study explores link between gut bacteria, fecal supplements and mental health

Could the answer to overcoming serious depression be found in a pill made from poop?

Could the answer to overcoming serious depression be found in a pill made from poop?

A research team from the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) is launching a study to investigate the potential link between gut bacteria and depression, and whether downing a supplement of fecal matter could help with treatment. 

"We are tapping into the gut-brain axis and power of the microbiome as a way to improve life and unlock new treatment options for individuals struggling with a variety of psychiatric conditions," said Dr. Valerie Taylor, a member of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute at the CSM.

The study will explore the use of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) as a treatment for Major Depressive Disorder.

FMT is a procedure in which healthy stool is transferred into the gut of a patient with a health condition. 

While it is already used to treat severe stomach problems, researchers are curious if it can also alleviate symptoms of depression.

The Calgary study will last 13 weeks and involve 18 visits to Foothills Medical Center, where participants will receive ingest either FMT capsules or placebo pills, with a 50/50 chance of receiving either.