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GABA: The Neurotransmitter of Peace and Relaxation

  • January 18, 2023
3 minute read

Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It is naturally produced in the brain and plays an important role in regulating brain activity, calming nerves and promoting relaxation. GABA has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, boost cognitive performance, and even enhance physical performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of GABA.

Mood Regulation

GABA is known as “the brain’s calming agent” because it helps to promote relaxation, reduce stress levels and decrease anxiety. Studies have also shown that GABA can help support a healthy mood by helping to regulate neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that GABA supplementation reduced symptoms of anxiety in participants.

Cognitive Performance

GABA is essential for improving your mental clarity, focus, and concentration. Research has shown that taking a GABA supplement can increase alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with improved focus and creativity. For example, a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that GABA supplementation improved cognitive function in athletes.

Physical Performance

By decreasing anxiety levels and promoting relaxation, GABA can also help improve physical performance. Studies have found that people who take GABA supplements before exercise experience less fatigue during their workout due to reduced cortisol levels (a hormone released during times of stress). A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that GABA supplementation improved endurance in athletes.

Overall, there are many benefits associated with using a quality GABA supplement, which is why we've incorporated it into our own sleep aid Dream -- and one of the many reasons we consider Dream not merely a sleep aid but a powerful nootropic as well. As always, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, but if you're looking for a safe way to reduce stress while also improving your overall health consider giving GABA a try and find out for yourself why it's often considered the neurotransmitter of peace and relaxation.

Looking for NSF Certified for Sport GABA supplements?

References:

  1. "The effects of GABA supplementation on anxiety" Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology
  2. "The cognitive-enhancing effects of GABA supplementation" Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
  3. "The endurance-enhancing effects of GABA supplementation" Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition