Description

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (4-Aminobutyric acid), often referred to as GABA, is an amino acid and a neurotransmitter, a chemical responsible for carrying signals from one nerve cell to another. Specifically, GABA changes brain activity, producing a calming effect.

GABA is an amino acid transmitter, which mediates rapid inhibition in the central nervous system. 4-aminobutyric acid (A) receptor is a ligand-gated chloride ion channel that plays an important part in polarizing the cell membrane and reducing neuronal excitability in the neuron. Topical application of 4-aminobutyric acid and 4-aminobutyric acid receptor-speci￠c agonists, musimol, and isoguvacine, after barrier disruption accelerated the barrier recovery. The 4-aminobutyric acid (B)-specific agonist, baclofen, did not affect the barrier recovery rate. The effect of 4-aminobutyric acid on the barrier recovery was blocked by the 4-aminobutyric acid (A)-receptor antagonist, bicuculline methobromide, but c-aminobutyric acid (B) receptor antagonist, saclofen, did not a?ect the e?ect of c-aminobutyric acid.

Benefits

Like many supplements, people may use GABA for various reasons. The most important function of GABA is in our brain. When GABA levels get too low, it’s difficult for the body to relax after a stress-induced neurotransmitter release. Low GABA activity leads to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and mood disorders. GABA is a natural brain relaxant that makes us feel good. However GABA can also help with the prevention and treatment of other health issues.

Controlled hypertension

The effects of GABA can be used to stabilize blood pressure in people with hypertension. High blood pressure is a factor that affects your risk of having a stroke, heart attack, or heart failure. One study examined how GABA lowered the blood pressure of adults with diagnosed hypertension. Participants took varying doses of GABA and monitored their blood pressure levels over eight weeks. Those taking 80 milligrams of GABA per day saw a significant drop in blood pressure.

Lower Obesity Risk

Obesity is a serious health condition that affects nearly 40% of Americans. It is responsible for an increased risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and osteoarthritis. In a study done in Korea, researchers looked at GABA’s possible ability to lower the chances of developing obesity in people. Participants received either GABA or a placebo and abstained from exercise for eight weeks. GABA supplements caused a reduction in body fat and triglyceride levels while increasing lean muscle mass.

Sleep Quality

In a small study of 40 people with insomnia, 300 milligrams (mg) of GABA one hour before bed for four weeks improved sleep quality by reducing sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep). Further, well-designed studies are needed to confirm these results.

Stress

A study of 30 people suggested GABA-enriched oolong tea was linked with lower short-term stress scores than regular oolong tea. Larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm these results.

References

[1] Mitsuhiro Denda PhD. “γ-Aminobutyric Acid (A) Receptor Agonists Accelerate Cutaneous Barrier Recovery and Prevent Epidermal Hyperplasia Induced by Barrier Disruption.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology 119 5 (2002): Pages 1041-1047.

[2] Maria Bianchi . “4-Aminobutyric acid methyl ester hydrochloride, a precursor of 4-aminobutyric acid.” Biochemical pharmacology 32 6 (1983): Pages 1093-1096.

[3] Dewitt, C. C. “γ‐Aminobutyric Acid.” Organic Syntheses 41 2 (2003): 4–4.