The Happy Pear twins have apologised “for any offence caused” by their social media post linking antibiotics with depression and anxiety.

It comes after physician Dr Zach Bush told the latest episode of their podcast that he believed taking anti-biotics risked a “massive risk of dysfunction of the brain”.

He claimed that if he were to take “one course of antibiotics”, his risk of “major depression in the next twelve months goes up by 24%”.

He then claimed that two courses within a year would see his chances of developing major depression increased by 52%, while his chances of developing an anxiety disorder increased by 45%.

2GCN75D GREYSTONES, IRELAND - Jul 02, 2021: The Happy Pear building which houses natural food market with organic products and cafe. Local family business in

After The Happy Pear published the comment in a social media reel, they faced sharp criticism from medical experts.

This morning, a spokesperson for David and Stephen Flynn said they acknowledged that some of the statements were “not given the appropriate qualification or context” in the social media post.

“It was never the intention to mislead or to misinform and we sincerely apologise for any offence caused,” he said.

“The Happy Pear is about creating happier, healthier lives and building community.

“The Happy Pear itself does not constitute a medical professional or medical expert opinion. Our primary purpose serves to highlight some of the health and lifestyle benefits of plant-based eating.”

The twins said they will “endeavour to ensure that this does not happen again”.

The Happy Pear has built a large online following, including close to one million followers on Facebook and Instagram.