You’ve probably heard of a GABA supplement, but do you know what it does in your body? GABA is not so popular these days for nothing and we will explain why. It is not only used as a supplement against anxiety, but also for other reasons.
In this article, we look at what GABA is, what it does for your body, and where you can find it.
What is GABA?
GABA is also known as Gamma-aminobutyric acid. Normally, it functions primarily as a neurotransmitter in your body. This means that it helps to carry signals from one nerve cell to another.In your brain, GABA is found in at least 30% of all connections between nerve cells, but it is present in smaller amounts in the rest of your body.
GABA has a calming effect on the body, it inhibits your impulses so that you can relax faster. This is why some people use a GABA supplement.
What does a GABA supplement do?
Since GABA has an inhibitory and calming effect, it is also used for this reason – for example, to reduce stress. Although little research has been done on the effects of GABA to date, the results of the current studies are very promising for the future. Below we will discuss in more detail what GABA supplements can help against.
1. Against Anxiety Disorders and Depression
GABA is sometimes prescribed by doctors to support people with anxiety disorders and/or depression. This substance can improve mood. People with depression or anxiety also naturally have less GABA in their bodies.
2. To promote sleep with GABA supplements
Because GABA supplement helps to reduce stress and calm the body, some people use it while sleeping. Research has shown that 300 mg of GABA can significantly improve sleep, including in people with chronic insomnia.
3. GABA Supplement to Reduce ADHD Symptoms
GABA not only helps you sleep better, but it can also bring you more rest when you have ADHD. The substance ensures that your brain works at a somewhat slower pace so that you have to process fewer stimuli and thus relax better.
4. To relieve pain
In other cases, a GABA supplement is used to relieve pain, such as in PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Because your muscles contract less, you will also suffer less from cramps from your uterus.
Where else can you get GABA from?
In addition to GABA dietary supplements, you can also get this substance from your regular diet. With a balanced diet, you already get enough. GABA is simply found in nuts, seeds, eggs, (green) leafy vegetables, beans, and tomatoes.As you get older, your body gets less GABA from food. It is then a good idea to use supplements to support your daily intake.
Because GABA is still fairly new and unknown, it is still unclear what a good RDA (recommended daily amount) of this substance is. However, there are also GABA supplement side effects, such as stomach cramps and fatigue. However, this only happens when you consume far too much. If you want to know for sure how much GABA is healthy for your body, contact your doctor.