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Purpose This study aims to investigate the association between the consumption of microbiota-influencing foods and the levels of depression, stress, and attention deficit among university students. Design/methodology/approach This cross-sectional study was conducted with undergraduate students (n = 393), selected from various faculties and vocational schools. Participants completed a series of validated questionnaires, including the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, Jasper-Goldberg Attention Deficit Disorder Test, Gastrointestinal Symptom Scale, and a dietary questionnaire evaluating the consumption of probiotic and prebiotic foods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics and appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests (ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis, Student’s t-test, Mann–Whitney U, Pearson or Spearman correlation) were applied according to data distribution, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Findings Consumption of probiotic or prebiotic foods was associated with lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among students. Awareness and consumption of these foods were comparatively lower among individuals using antidepressant medications. No statistically significant associations were observed between probiotic or prebiotic intake and attention deficit or gastrointestinal symptoms. Overall, the findings suggest an association between microbiota-related dietary patterns and psychological distress among university students. Originality/value This study is among the first to simultaneously examine the associations between probiotic and prebiotic food consumption and multiple psychological outcomes in a university student population. The findings contribute observational evidence to the emerging literature on gut microbiota-related dietary patterns and mental health in young adults.