Introduction: Optimal mental well-being and cognitive performance are crucial factors influencing an athlete's success in competitive sports. However, the demanding nature of athletic training and competition can take a toll on an athlete's mental health. The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication pathway between the gut microbiome and the brain, has emerged as a potential target for enhancing cognitive function and psychological well-being. This review explores the psychobiotic approach, which involves the use of tailored probiotic strains with potential psychotropic effects, as a strategy for boosting athletic performance and mental resilience.

Methodology: A comprehensive review of the scientific literature was conducted, covering studies on the gut-brain axis, probiotics, psychobiotics, and their applications in athletic contexts. The mechanisms of action, strain selection considerations, and potential benefits of psychobiotics for cognitive function, mood regulation, recovery, and immune support were examined.

Results: Psychobiotics have demonstrated the ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels, reduce neuroinflammation, and influence pathways involved in brain function and stress response. Existing clinical studies have reported promising effects of certain psychobiotic strains on cognitive performance, anxiety, depression, and exercise-related outcomes, such as muscle recovery and immune function. However, the research is still limited, and challenges include strain-specific effects, dosage considerations, and individual variability.

Discussion: The integration of psychobiotics into athletic training and recovery protocols holds potential for a more holistic approach to performance enhancement, addressing both physical and mental aspects of an athlete's well-being. Tailored psychobiotic interventions, combined with exercise regimens and dietary strategies, could optimize cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall mental toughness. Future research should focus on larger-scale clinical trials, exploring synergistic effects, and investigating long-term impacts on athletic performance. The psychobiotic approach represents a promising frontier in the pursuit of optimizing the mind-body connection in sports.