GABA
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that is naturally produced in the brain. It is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps to reduce the activity of nerve cells in the brain and central nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote better sleep.
GABA supplements are often taken to help with these issues, as well as to help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), pain relief, exercise tolerance, blood pressure, and muscle growth.
Studies have shown that doses of GABA ranging between 100 and 300 mg can be effective in reducing sleep latency with prolonged use of 1-4 weeks. According to a safety review by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), no GABA-specific adverse effects were reported by any of the subjects, and none of the reported symptoms (cold, headache, diarrhea, loose stools) were considered to be related to GABA supplementation.
GABA is generally considered safe for most people and can be used with minimal side effects. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take a GABA supplement as its effects have not been studied in these individuals. Additionally, if you’re already taking medications for depression, anxiety or insomnia, you may want to talk to your doctor before starting supplementation as it could interact with these medications. While there is limited research on the benefits of GABA supplements, some studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and relieving symptoms of PMS. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of GABA supplementation on the body.
Sources:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22857-gamma-aminobutyric-acid-gaba
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/gaba-uses-and-risks
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7527439/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8399837/
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/gaba/
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/gaba-what-should-i-know-about-it-89053
