The benefits of GABA

What is GABA?

GABA or gamma-aminobutyric acid is a neurotransmitter, in particular an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning that it blocks “excitatory” neurons in the central nervous system. Specifically, GABA blocks the body’s most important excitatory neurotransmitter: glutamate.

In fact, GABA regulates brain activity by inhibiting the release of neurons and slows down brain activity, which generates a feeling of calm and relaxation .

Where to find it?

GABA is produced naturally in the body, primarily in the gut. It is also present in plants, animals, and some foods (such as green tea and fermented foods such as kimchi, tempeh, sourdough bread, etc.) 

Some natural supplements can also increase GABA levels, such as valerian, American ginseng, magnesium and L-theanine.

What are the benefits of GABA?

When GABA activity levels are optimal, studies have shown that it:

• Improves sleep because GABA helps the body enter a relaxed state and allows for deep sleep. Low levels of GABA have been linked to insomnia; in particular, a study showed that patients who had difficulty falling asleep had GABA levels nearly 30% lower than those who did not.

• Relieves stress and anxiety. Through greater relaxation, slowing down brainwave activity helps relieve stress and anxiety. Studies have demonstrated that decreased GABA levels are associated with several neurological and mental health disorders.

• Reduces inflammation. In a calmer state, the body's inflammation levels decrease significantly, which has a positive impact on the state of the immune system and therefore, your overall health!

And much more! 

Increase GABA Levels Naturally

GABA levels can be affected in several ways: the way of life, chronic stress, a deficiency of glutamine (a precursor of GABA), genes, etc.

In today's world, our bodies are often under stress: processed foods and general "junk food", alcohol, lack of sleep, sedentary lifestyle, emotional stress, and the list goes on. Unfortunately, stress, whether environmental or emotional, leads to a depletion of GABA.

Too little GABA activity creates overstimulation of neural signals, leading to anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders or, in more extreme cases, epileptic seizures.

Different ways to increase GABA naturally:

• Practice sport regularly such as jogging, walking, cycling, etc.

• Limit alcohol and processed foods. Although GABA is stimulated by alcohol consumption, the side effects of alcohol consumption significantly reduce GABA levels, as do processed foods.

• Consume foods rich in glutamine (its precursor): eggs, white meats, legumes like lentils or chickpeas, leafy vegetables like spinach or parsley. And GABA-rich foods like green tea.

• Take “co-factor” dietary supplements for the conversion of glutamine to GABA as taurine, manganese, magnesium and vitamin B6, because GABA itself is poorly absorbed by the body.

It is also possible to take dietary supplements to balance GABA levels, talk to your doctor if you suffer from one or more of the symptoms mentioned in this article. 

Take care of yourself !

Love
Clear