GABA quick review

• Description: a non-essential amino acid formed through the activity of the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase.

• Health benefits: used in the treatment of depression, manic-depressive (bipolar) disorder, seizures, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and anxiety.

GABA by Enzymatic Therapy

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an important amino acid neurotransmitter in the brain. It regulates brain nerve cell functions and has been referred to as the brain's natural calming agent. GABA by Enzymatic Therapy is manuafactured according to the highest pharmaceutical standards and uses only the best quality raw ingredients. Click here for more information.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a non-essential amino acid formed from glutamic acid with the help of vitamin B6. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is found in almost every region of brain, and is formed through the activity of the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD). GAD catalyzes the formation of GABA from glutamic acid. GAD requires vitamin B6 (pyridoxal phosphate) as a cofactor, which can be used to regulate the levels of GABA. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system to block the transmission of an impulse from one cell to another in the central nervous system.. In humans, GABA acts at inhibitory synapses in the brain and spinal cord.

GABA functions, uses, and health benefits

Gamma-aminobutyric acid functions as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, decreasing neuron activity thus preventing them from overfiring. With niacinamide (B3) and inositol, GABA prevents anxiety and stress-related messages from reaching the motor centers of the brain, and is essential for brain metabolism.

GABA has been used in the treatment of depression, manic-depressive (bipolar) disorder, seizures, premenstrual dysphoric (feeling depressed) disorder, and anxiety. GABA serves as a inhibitory neurotransmitter to block the transmission of an impulse from one cell to another in the central nervous system. GABA improves sleep cycles leading to more restful sleeping. GABA has powerful stabilizing effects on blood pressure. GABA is a very effective analgesic, eliminating pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis and lower back pain. GABA supplements can help to relieve the intensity of pain. They may also lessen pain-related nerve impulses.

Gamma.-aminobutyric acid naturally stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to secrete higher levels of human growth hormone (HGH). GABA signals the pituitary to naturally release HGH. HGH is a hormone that is widely known for its powerful anabolic (muscle building) effects as well as its lipotropic (breakdown and utilization of body fat) effects. Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced, stored and secreted by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain.

GABA has been used to treat both epilepsy and hypertension where it is thought to induce tranquility in individuals who have a high activity of manic behavior and acute agitation. Levels of GABA in the brain may influence seizure activity in individuals with epilepsy. GABA appears to inhibit nerve cells in the brain from firing and setting off seizures. Gamma.-aminobutyric acid analog gabapentin has been approved in the United States for the treatment of epileptic seizures and post-herpetic neuralgia. The drug has also shown efficacy in controlled studies for treating neuropathic pain of varying etiologies.

GABA dosage, intake

Some doctors recommend GABA in the amount of 2 grams four times daily. Doses of GABA as high as 5 grams per dose are recommended within hard-core bodybuilding circles to stimulate spikes in plasma growth hormone levels, but smaller doses of 1-2 grams are probably more realistic. Doses are typically taken on an empty stomach prior to sleep.

GABA deficiency

A deficiency of GABA has also been linked to depression. Some people with anxiety and panic disorders may not manufacture sufficient levels of GABA.

Toxicity, side effects, interactions, and contraindications

GABA appears to be safe at recommended doses. There are no negative side effects possible with the use of GABA, however, at high doses, GABA can actually increase anxiety and insomnia. It may also cause numbness around the mouth and tingling in the extremities, de mild nausea, a slight shortness of breath that lasts for a few minutes and temporary tingling of the skin.