Depressed? Dig in the dirt

Scientists in the United Kingdom reported a type of bacteria found in soil may have an antidepressant effect, according to Medical News Today.

Researchers at Bristol University and University College London discovered friendly bacteria in soil prompted lab mice to produce the brain chemical serotonin, which altered behavior in a similar way to antidepressants. The study’s lead author said the findings “leave us wondering if we shouldn’t all be spending more time playing in the dirt.”

-- Sarah