GABA

GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid), is a neurotransmitter made from the amino acid glutamate. GABA is the chief inhibiting, or calming neurotransmitter in the brain, functioning as a brake on the neural circuitry during stress. Low GABA levels are associated with restlessness, anxiety, insomnia and a poor mood. GABA works to balance glutamate (excitatory) in the brain. GABA is the brake pedal on a car while glutamate is the gas pedal.

Supplements to support GABA & glutamate are: amino acids GABA L-theanine N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) vitamins B6 vitamin D magnesium zinc omega-3 inositol

Abdou AM, Higashiguchi S, Horie K et al: Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. Biofactors, 2006; 26(3): 201–8

Kendell SF, Krystal JH, Sanacora G: GABAandglutamate systems as therapeutic targets in depressionand mood disorders. Expert OpinTher Targets, 2005; 9: 153–68

Kugaya A, Sanacora G: Beyond monoamines: glutamatergic function in mood disorders. CNS Spectr, 2005; 10: 808–19

Thorne Research, Inc: Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). Alternative Medicine Review, 2007; 12(3)