Medically reviewed by What is GABA?
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a special kind of amino acid. It is the primary calming (inhibitory) neurotransmitter in the brain. Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers between nerve cells (neurons).
The body naturally produces GABA from glutamine, which is an important amino acid in the brain. GABA is a natural calming agent that can be used as an anti-epileptic, promoting relaxation or for improving mood.
It plays a very important role in proper brain function since it helps the body produce endorphins, which are the chemicals in the body that give us a feeling of happiness.
What are GABA Supplements and Why are They Taken?
GABA supplements usually come in capsule, tablet or powder form. This depression supplement can be taken for many reasons, the most popular of which are controlling stress, nervousness, anxiety, depression, insomnia and improving focus.
There are many other uses of GABA supplements including pain relief, treatment of panic attacks, epilepsy, hypertension, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, etc. Some experts even claim that the amino acid can promote fat loss and help increase growth hormone production in the body.
How Does It Work?
Experts discovered that GABA affects a person’s mood by reducing high levels of certain hormones including adrenaline, dopamine and noradrenalin while also affecting the neurotransmitter serotonin. Having a sufficient amount of GABA in the brain causes a state of relaxation and a feeling of happiness. On the other hand, low levels of this amino acid in the brain can cause difficulty sleeping, anxiety, nervousness, irritability and depression.
In people who are nervous or are suffering from anxiety related disorders, the brain produces more beta waves than alpha waves. Taking GABA supplements reverses this state and alpha waves are increased. Studies have discovered that alpha waves are directly connected to clear thinking, excellent focus and being in a relaxed state of mind.
GABA is also a popular dietary supplement in the fitness industry because it may help increase human growth hormone level which results in different physical and mental benefits.
Doses of GABA
The appropriate dosage for supplementing with GABA depends on certain factors, including the user’s weight, age, health and other conditions. Doses vary from one supplement to another also depending on the reason for supplementing with the amino acid. Read the product label carefully for the recommended dosage of a particular supplement.
Currently, there is still no scientific information on how to determine the optimal dose for supplementing with the amino acid. Remember that even natural products can have adverse effects. It would be best to consult your physician before using any depression pills.
What are the Advantages of GABA Supplement?
- It offers a natural alternative for treating anxiety, depression, nervousness and other similar conditions
- There is some evidence that it works in relieving anxiety, improving mood and offering other health benefits
- There are many GABA supplements available from different retailers
- Some experts believe it is a safe alternative for treating depression and other mental and physical disorders
Are There Side Effects From Taking GABA Supplements?
There are several side effects connected to supplementing with GABA. However, the risk of side effect increases as dosage increases. Also, the side effect may be a result of negative interaction with other substances including medication and other supplements.
The common side effects supplementing with the amino acid include increased blood pressure, dysphoria (unexplained, unpleasant feeling), sleepiness and increased heart rate. In case you don’t feel right while taking GABA, discontinue use and contact your physician immediately.
Who Should Avoid Taking GABA?
Generally, anyone who is suffering from any medical condition or are taking medication of any kind should avoid taking GABA. It would be best to consult your doctor before use even if you don’t have any medical condition or aren’t taking medication. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your primary health care provider before use.
Special Precautions and Warnings
Before taking GABA, you need to talk to your doctor about it. Read and follow the instructions on the product’s label carefully before use. Keep out of reach of children. In case you feel unwell or simply don’t feel right while taking the supplement, consult your doctor.
Take note that the risk of side effect/s increase as dosage increases and GABA may have negative interactions with certain drugs and supplements.
GABA Supplement Review – Final Verdict
GABA appears to be a promising natural antidepressant supplement. However, it is not always effective and may even cause adverse effects in certain cases.
Safety should be your primary concern, so it would be best to consult a healthcare professional before using this or any other supplement for treating depression or any other psychological condition.
Depression and anxiety are common disorders that can make daily tasks extremely challenging. Some estimates allege that approximately one in ten Americans suffer from some level of depression and/or anxiety. Symptoms of anxiety and depression include ongoing feelings of sadness accompanied by unease, irritability, tension, and nervousness. While some people require medication to deal with these occasionally crippling symptoms, others may find an all-natural product helpful. An all natural relaxation supplement should promote healthy neurological function. All ingredients should be clinically proven to reduce feelings of anxiousness, sadness, unease, irritability, tension, and nervousness.
Below you'll find some of the most effective natural nervousness relief supplements on the market today, in our opinion.
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**This is a subjective assessment based on the strength of the available informations and our estimation of efficacy.
*Result may vary. If you are pregnant, nursing, have a serious medical condition, or have a history of heart conditions we suggest consulting with a physician before using any supplement. The information contained in this website is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should not be relied upon as a medical advice. Always consult your doctor before using any supplements.
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