GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
GABA is a non-essential amino acid found naturally in beans, brewer’s yeast, dairy products,
eggs, fish, legumes, meat, nuts, seafood, seeds, soy, whey,
and whole grains. GABA functions as the most prevalent
inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). GABA is found in large amounts
in the hypothalamus, this implies that the amino acid has a
fundamental role in hypothalamic-pituitary function,
and thus neuroendocrine metabolism. The hypothalamus is a region of the brain, which regulates the autonomous functions, such as sleep,
body temperature and the activity of the pituitary gland.
The pituitary is an endocrine gland that affects all
hormonal functions of the body. It is the pituitary gland
that secretes the much talked about growth hormone, however GABA is an excellent substitute for
growth hormone and several clinical studies have found that
ingestion of GABA, especially after exercise, stimulates
the pituitary to secrete growth hormone.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Because of its inhibitory effects upon the CNS,
supplemental GABA can be useful for aiding relaxation. GABA can help to decrease epileptic seizures and muscle spasms
by inhibiting message transmission
in neurons. This helps control nerve cells from firing too
fast, which would overload the system. As GABA
stimulates the secretion of growth
hormone from the pituitary, it can
help to increase lean body mass. GABA also lowers
blood pressure, helps control hypoglycemia, prevents
anxiety, and promotes sleep.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
There are no known signs of GABA
deficiency.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
Refer to packaging.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
per day
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Side effects can include a tingling sensation in
the face and a slight shortness of breath shortly
after taking the supplement. Both effects only last for a few minutes. GABA may cause drowsiness; therefore, it is best to take it shortly before going
to bed. People with kidney or liver disease should consult
their doctor before taking supplementary GABA.
