12 Wild Things Scientists Have Learned About the Gut Microbiome

8. Gut Microbes Can Make You More or Less Social

Perhaps one of the most surprising discoveries about the gut microbiome is its influence on social behavior and interpersonal relationships. Groundbreaking research has revealed that gut bacteria can affect everything from social anxiety to empathy levels, fundamentally shaping how we interact with others. Studies conducted at UCLA found that individuals with higher levels of Lactobacillus rhamnosus showed increased social confidence and reduced social anxiety, while those with elevated Desulfovibrio species exhibited more antisocial tendencies. The mechanisms behind this microbe-behavior connection involve bacterial production of neurotransmitters and hormones that influence social cognition and emotional processing. Research has shown that certain gut bacteria can modulate oxytocin and vasopressin levels—hormones crucial for bonding, trust, and social recognition. Even more fascinating, scientists have discovered that gut bacteria can influence facial expressions and body language through their effects on the autonomic nervous system, potentially affecting how others perceive and respond to us. Studies in animal models have demonstrated that germ-free mice show impaired social behaviors that can be restored through specific bacterial colonization. Furthermore, research suggests that the microbiome may influence mate selection and relationship satisfaction through its effects on pheromone production and stress responses. The social implications of these findings are profound, suggesting that our relationships and social success may be partially determined by the microscopic communities living within us. This research opens new possibilities for treating social anxiety disorders and improving interpersonal relationships through targeted microbiome interventions.