GABA (Gamma aminobutyric acid) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
If GABA had a personality type it would be cool, calm and carefree. GABA has a calming influence on the brain and is considered our natural “Valium-like” neurotransmitter. Symptoms of low GABA levels can include panic attacks, anxiety, sleep disturbances and restlessness. Here are some simple strategies to support GABA production.
The practice of yoga and meditation have both been shown to have a positive influence on GABA levels.
GABA is produced in the brain from glutamic acid/glutamate.
Vitamin B-6 is a required co-factor for GABA synthesis. B-6 along with glutamate decarboxylase help to catalyze glutamate in the production of GABA. Including foods rich in B-6 helps to support the production of GABA in the brain.
Some good sources of B-6 include: spinach, garlic, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and bananas, varieties of green, black or Oolong teas, lentils, berries, grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, seaweed, noni fruits, potatoes, and tomatoes. Supports a healthy heart and circulation. Promotes proper nerve function.
Encourages a healthy immune system. Maintains healthy muscle function. Helps convert proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into energy.
Plays a role in the production of hormones, red blood cells, enzymes, brain function, and skin health.
Fermented foods rich in probiotics such as fermented pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, plain kefir and coconut water kefir. Specific strains of bacteria including Lactobacillus rhamnosus have been shown to boost the role of GABA. Other GABA producing strains include Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus brevis and Lactococcus lactis.
L-theanine is a relaxing amino acid that is naturally occurring in green tea. It has been shown to increase GABA levels.
Promotes relaxation response to decrease stress. Enhances alpha waves in the brain. Serves as a powerful antioxidant. Maintains healthy immune function. Supports proper blood flow
Inositol is a vitamin-like substance naturally produced in the human body that gives GABA a boost. Essential for DNA production
Supports nerve transmission. Vital to the growth and reproduction of cells. Helps natural metabolization of fat.
Magnesium is an essential mineral often called the “miracle mineral” due to its relaxing effect on the body. Magnesium can help stimulate GABA-receptors. Supplementing with magnesium may help address symptoms of magnesium deficiency which include muscle cramps, tremors, irregular heartbeat, memory problems and anxiety.
Magnesium helps convert carbohydrates, protein, sugars, and fats into energy. It also supports muscle relaxation and contraction as well as nerve transmission. Some studies show that increased magnesium is one of the most effective ways to boost energy. The Journal of Nutrition reported that low magnesium levels take a significant toll on the body's energy supply.
Taurine is an amino acid found throughout the human body. Taurine has been found to activate GABA receptors and encourage the release of GABA.
Promotes a healthy heart. Supports proper vision. Helps maintain proper blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Promotes the body's natural detoxification process. Encourages the body's response to fatigue and lactic acid. Decreases lactic acid to reduce fatigue.
Herbs such as passionflower and valerian root have been shown to increase GABA in studies.
Supplementing with GABA may have a direct impact on anxiety, sleep cycle disturbances, restlessness and muscle tension. Supplement with the naturally occurring compound itself. GABA supplementation will promote a healthy sleep cycle and calming neurotransmitter production.
4-Amino-3-Phenylbutric Acid is a GABA derivative that easily crosses the blood brain barrier and works to increase GABA levels.
Gamma-Amino Butyric acid is sold as a supplement, but it has been shown to have minimal ability to cross the blood brain barrier unless used in combination with Nitric Oxide stimulators to help GABA cross blood brain barrier.
Certain supplements are known for their ability to support GABA production. Always let your Physician know about supplements you are adding to your regimen.