Looking for the root causes of OCD 

Anna Pinnock Dr Suparna Chakrabarti

OCD has been linked to chronic infections, particularly Streptococcus pyogenes (a Gram-positive bacterium and belongs to the group A streptococcus (GAS) family), through conditions like Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). This connection highlights a potential role of autoimmune and inflammatory responses in the development of OCD symptoms.

A 2017 study in JAMA Psychiatry found that adults with a history of infections requiring hospitalisation had a higher risk of developing OCD.

Research indicates that immune responses to Streptococcus may be involved in adults with OCD, though the association is less pronounced than in children.

Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune markers have been observed in individuals with OCD, suggesting that infection-triggered immune responses could play a role.

OCD has also been linked to nutritional deficiencies and gut-brain axis imbalances through several mechanisms.

These connections highlight how nutrient levels and gut health may influence brain function, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter regulation, all of which play roles in OCD.

Vitamin B12 and Folate support serotonin and dopamine synthesis, critical for mood regulation and compulsive behaviours.

  • Evidence: Deficiencies in B12 and folate have been observed in individuals with OCD and anxiety disorders.

  • Studies: A 2020 study found that folate supplementation improved OCD symptoms in some cases.

Magnesium regulates the nervous system and reduces excitatory brain signals, potentially calming obsessive thoughts.

  • Evidence: Deficiency has been linked to heightened anxiety and compulsivity.

Vitamin D modulates immune function and reduces neuroinflammation, which may affect OCD symptoms.

  • Evidence: A 2021 review in Frontiers in Psychiatry found an association between low vitamin D levels and OCD severity.

The gut-brain axis, the bidirectional communication network between the gut and the brain, plays a crucial role in mental health, including OCD.

Microbiome Dysbiosis:

  • Impact: Imbalances in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can increase gut permeability ("leaky gut") and systemic inflammation, potentially affecting the brain.

    Studies: Research has found altered gut microbiota in individuals with OCD, suggesting that gut health interventions may benefit OCD symptoms. A 2022 review in Psychiatry Research highlighted improvements in OCD-like behaviours in individuals after gut-targeted interventions.

    Gut-Derived Neurotransmitters:

    • Role: The gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which influence mood and behaviour.

    • Evidence: Disruption in these pathways has been implicated in OCD and related anxiety disorders.

  • Immune and Inflammatory Pathways:

    • Impact: Gut inflammation can activate neuroinflammatory responses in the brain, particularly in regions like the basal ganglia, which is implicated in OCD.

    • Studies: Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) have been observed in OCD patients, supporting the role of gut-related immune activation.

Frequently asked questions by our clients

  • Your practitioner will complement your OCD treatments by addressing nutritional deficiencies, supporting gut-brain health, and promoting balanced blood sugar and inflammation control. By collaborating with your doctors our practitioner will ensure dietary changes and supplements align with therapy or medications, enhancing overall mental health and reducing symptom severity through holistic, personalised care.

  • Your practitioner will guide you to adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s (e.g., fatty fish, walnuts), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and whole grains, avoiding processed foods, refined sugars, and potential triggers like gluten or dairy. It is also important to balance blood sugar with protein, healthy fats, and fiber and incorporate probiotics (yogurt, fermented foods) to support gut-brain health.

  • Gut health is closely linked to OCD through the gut-brain axis, a communication network between the gut and brain. Dysbiosis (gut microbiome imbalance) can lead to inflammation, affect neurotransmitter production (e.g., serotonin), and exacerbate OCD symptoms. Supporting gut health with probiotics, fiber, and a balanced diet may help improve mental well-being.

If you’d like to know more, please get in touch or book in a free call by clicking the link below.