The human gut microbiome produces enough neurotransmitters to directly influence human personality traits and temperament.
NOT BSTOTAL BS
TOTAL BS — Verdict: False
Verified by Lenz ·
The Short Version
The evidence does not support a direct microbiome-to-personality effect through microbial neurotransmitters. Gut microbes do make neuroactive chemicals, but these generally do not cross into the brain in amounts that would directly shape personality or temperament. Current human research mainly suggests indirect gut-brain signaling and possible links to mood or symptoms, not proven direct control of stable personality traits.
Caveats
Do not confuse microbial production of neurotransmitters in the gut with those neurotransmitters directly altering brain levels.
Associations between gut bacteria and personality-related measures are mostly correlational and cannot prove causation.
Evidence is stronger for indirect effects on mood, stress, or symptoms than for direct effects on stable personality traits or temperament.