In some embodiments, a composition comprising
Bifidobacterium bifidum,
Bifidobacterium longum,
Lactobacillus plantarum, and
Streptococcus thermophilus is provided. In some embodiments, provided is the use of a composition of any of the examples herein for preventing or alleviating
anxiety and / or sensory hypersensitivity, preventing or treating
autism spectrum disorder (ASD),
anxiety disorder and / or gastrointestinal (GI) disorder or condition, enhancing attention and / or concentration, or stimulating a
GABA receptor in a subject. In some embodiments, methods and kits are provided for preventing or alleviating
anxiety and / or sensory hypersensitivity, preventing or treating
autism spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, and / or gastrointestinal disorders or conditions, enhancing attention and / or concentration, or stimulating GABA receptors in a subject. In certain embodiments, the compositions are safe to use and effective to prevent or alleviate anxiety and / or sensory hypersensitivity in subjects, particularly children subjects.