γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is chemically an amino acid. It is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in mammalian nervous system. We are well aware that anxiety is nearly an epidemic as thousands of people feel chronically anxious, irritable and unfocused on a daily basis. And for some people, chronic anxiety seriously interferes with their ability to function in social or workplace settings. Low levels of GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid, may be a contributing factor because GABA deficiencies can negatively affect an individual's ability to manage even the most low level stressful situations. A calming or "peacemaker" chemical in the brain, GABA induces relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety, and increases focus. One of the four key neurotransmitters, GABA also serves to keep all the other neurotransmitters in check. A deficiency can lead to:

GABA is the most important and abundant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain (it is actually an amino acid classified as neurotransmitter.) It helps induce relaxation and sleep. It acts as a “balancer” for the brain where excitation of the brain is balanced with the inhibition.

How is it Made?
GABA is synthesized in situ. It is synthesized from glutamate using the enzyme L-glutamic acid decarboxylase and pyridoxal phosphate (which is the active form of vitamin B6) as a cofactor via a metabolic pathway called the GABA shunt. This process converts glutamate, the principal excitatory neurotransmitter, into the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter (GABA).

Where is it Found?
In nature the following foods are high in glutamic acid/glutamate (forms glutamine, precursor to GABA):

GABA is produced in the human brain and functions as a balancer, maintains balance between the body and the mind in states of excitation. GABA aids several complications including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, hypertension or HBP, obesity, insomnia, alcoholism and many more. It is also a great help in treating mental blocks.

GABA is helpful for any active individuals, bodybuilders and athletes. They help in enhancing the body’s muscle mass, which is GABA’s conductive anabolic property and its lipotropic property helps in fat reduction and weight loss programs, simultaneously.

GABA For Anxiety
This key brain chemical is critically important to maintaining an overall sense of mental well-being. GABA is also involved in the production of endorphins, brain chemicals that create a feeling of well-being known as ‘runners high’. Endorphins are produced in the brain during physical movement, such as stretching or even sexual intercourse.” As endorphins are released people begin to feel a sense of calm, often referred to as the Endorphin Effect. Although experiencing occasional anxiety is common, chronic anxiety can be debilitating and can dramatically decrease an individual's quality of life, as well as negatively impact their immune system.

GABA controls the brain’s rhythmic theta waves, the normal brainwave in the encephalogram of a person who is awake but relaxed and drowsy. Theta waves help the brain maintain physical and mental balance. GABA is the most important and widespread inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Excitation in the brain must be balanced with inhibition. Too much excitation can lead to restlessness, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. GABA is able to induce relaxation, analgesia, and sleep.

Dosage
2 grams of GABA should be taken for it to be effective. 5g is shown to be more effective, and the effectiveness of GABA is maxed out at 18 grams. There are studies done on GABA where it's administered either orally or intravenously. Taking GABA orally is not as effective as taking it intravenously; however it's more reflective of expected real world results, as most GABA supplements are designed to be taken orally. Despite this, GABA is effective even when taken orally.

Possible Side effects / Precautions / Possible Interactions
There are few if any side effects of GABA. Some users have experienced some mild tingling sensations around the face and neck area after supplementing GABA. Some users also notice a brief and mild change in heart rate or breathing patterns. These GABA side effects quickly disappear and are not harmful. Not everyone experiences these side effects, so you may, or may not experience these GABA side effects.

GABA also has a slightly sedative effect, which makes it ideal to take before going to bed.

Research Studies / References