A-Z gaba supplement Articles

What Is GABA?

Some amino acids can be manufactured in the body from other amino acids and are thus called non-essential. GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid, is one of these non-essential amino acids. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a brain chemical that regulates the electrical conduction of the brain. It stops brain cells from overfiring by binding to receptor sites and blocking the activity of stimulating neurochemicals. This leads to relaxation of the mind and body. The best GABA supplement can be used as an alternative to the herb kava kava.

Key Uses & Health Benefits of A GABA Supplement

GABA works in the same way as prescription tranquillizers, like valium, but without the chance of addiction. In times of stress, anxiety or hyperactivity GABA binds in the motor centers in the brain. It can increase a low sex drive if it is caused by stress, hypertension due to tension in the vessel walls and epilepsy from errant brain signals. Natural health practitioners recommend the best GABA supplements for stress, hyperactivity, anxiety, hypertension, epilepsy, low libido and BPH support. 

Different GABA Supplement Varieties 

GABA supplements are found in capsules, tablets or as a powder. It is best absorbed when taken between meals. If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, take it with an amino acid complex to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids and keep an appropriate ratio of amino in your body. GABA should come in an opaque bottle and be kept away from heat and moisture.

Important Information & Cautions

GABA can interact with other sedative medications, anti-anxiety agents, antidepressants, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, alcohol and anti-seizure medication. GABA can cause drowsiness and should not be used if activities requiring alertness are being performed. 

GABA has not been tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or people with liver or kidney disease. Excess GABA can cause anxiety, seizures, shortness of breath, numbness around the mouth and tingling in the extremities.

Some amino acids can be manufactured in the body from other amino acids and are thus called non-essential. Glutamic acid (GA) is one of these non-essential amino acids because it can be produced in the brain when arginine, ornithine and proline are in ample supply. It can also be changed into GABA or L-glutamine, and vice versa. Glutamic acid is a neurotransmitter, a brain chemical that regulates the electrical conduction of the brain. It excites brain cells and causes them to fire. Thus, this amino stimulates the mind and body.

Health Benefits of Glutamic Acid 

GA also helps the transport of molecules like potassium across the blood-brain barrier and acts as a fuel source for brain cells. It also reduces the build-up of toxic ammonia in the brain. 

If GA is changed into L-glutamine it helps to heal ulcers, detoxify chemicals and build muscle tissue. GA can be converted into GABA, a neurotransmitter that opposes glutamic acid in its function. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Natural health practitioners recommend it for hyperactivity, depression, epilepsy, developmental disabilities, muscular dystrophy and ulcers recommend GA.

Supplement Options For Glutamic Acid

GA is usually supplemented as L-glutamine because it is more easily transported into the brain. Once in the brain, L-glutamine can be easily converted into glutamic acid. 

As a supplement, L-glutamine is found in capsules or tablets. It is best absorbed when taken between meals. If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, take it with an amino acid complex to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids. GA can also convert into GABA, an inhibitory neurochemical.

Potential Side Effects & Cautions To Consider

MSG (monosodium glutamate), is a variation of glutamic acid. Individuals who are allergic to MSG should not use this supplement. In high doses, it may irritate the central nervous system which is similar to a reaction to MSG. Do not use glutamine if you have liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, Reye’s syndrome or an accumulation of ammonia in the blood.