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Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) - Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

What is Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) ?

GABA, or Gamma-Aminobutryic Acid, is a powerful amino acid that was first discovered in 1883 in Berlin. It is actually classified as a nearuotransmitter, which means it helps nerve impulses cross the synapses (gaps) and communicate better. GABA has a great number of positive effects on the nervous system. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It is essential for brain metabolism, aiding in proper brain function. GABA is formed in the body from another amino acid, glutamic acid.

Its function is to decrease neuron activity and inhibit nerve cells from over firing. Together with niacinamide and inositol, it prevents anxiety and stress related messages from reaching the motor centers of the brain by occupying their receptor sites.

Uses and Benefits of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

GABA can be taken to calm the body in much the same way as diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and other tranquilizers, but without the fear of addiction. GABA has been used in the treatment of epilepsy and hypertension. It is good for depressed sex drive because of its ability as a relaxant. It is also useful for enlarged prostate, probably because it plays a role in the mechanism regulating the release of sex hormones. GABA is effective in treating attention deficit disorder and may reduce cravings for alcohol. It is also thought to promote growth hormone secretion. GABA may also be effective in treating PMS in women.

Deficiency Symptoms of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

Deficiency symptoms of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) may cause panic attacks, since an intake of tranquilizers can increase the level of GABA in the body. A deficiency of GABA has also been linked to depression.

Recommended Dosage of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

The research indicates that the proper amounts of GABA to take per day is a minimum of 2 grams. Better results have been found when supplementing with 5 grams per day.

Rich Food Sources of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

Food sources of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) are fish (especially mackerel) and wheat bran.

Caution

Too much GABA, however, can cause increased anxiety, shortness of breath, numbness around the mouth, and tingling in the extremities. Further, abnormal levels of GABA unbalance the brain's message-delivery system and may cause seizures.