If you've been browsing our products, you may have seen "GABA" pop up. If you asked yourself "what is GABA?", we're here to provide you with an answer.
At a high-level, GABA is gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is a naturally occurring agent found in the central nervous system. It is made from glutamate, a product of glucose metabolism, in brain cells. Below, we dive further into its benefits and the products you can find it in that work best for you.
What Is GABA?
GABA is the body’s principle inhibitory neurotransmitter. It is responsible for pumping the brakes on our nerve impulses whenever we’re placed in less-than-ideal, taxing situations. A high level of GABA activity indicates a lower chance of overstimulation and a higher chance of feeling calm under pressure.**
How Does GABA Work?
Glutamate, which is responsible for the creation of GABA, holds a stark contrast to the neurotransmitter in question. Glutamate acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter and sends nerve impulses when it attaches itself to surrounding brain cells, during those stressful moments. As we just learned, GABA does the complete opposite because it slows down those cells in order to avoid a nerve impulse.
Interestingly enough, GABA receptors are also found in the hypothalamus, which is involved in sleep and emotional activity. This leads us to our next question: Why do people take GABA supplements?
Why Do People Take GABA Supplements?
GABA supplements, like Feeling Zen™, Sleep Collagen Shot, Blueberry Moon Milk Collagen Latte™ and Vital Performance™ Sleep are out there and are said to help promote a restful night’s sleep as well as to help combat nerves and occasional stress.**
Can You Get GABA From Foods?
In addition to supplementing your routine with some of these products, a diet rich in GABA may help promote similar benefits. Some of these food items you can find at your local grocery stores include shrimp, cherry tomatoes, kefir and oolong tea.
