GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid naturally produced in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter in suppressing nerve impulses related to anxiety.
What is GABA?
Simply put, GABA is what keeps the brain from responding to stressful situations in abnormal ways, such as panic attacks and other anxiety disorders. In a healthy and well-nourished person, the brain produces sufficient amounts of GABA.
Why Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?
There are many possible causes for anxiety disorder:
• family history
• prolonged exposure to stressful situations (e.g., work/school/family woes)
• persistent insomnia or sleeping troubles
• poor or unhealthy eating habits
How Could GABA Help?
If you are experiencing an anxiety disorder, GABA may dramatically help your physical symptoms. But while a boost in GABA might be all your body needs, it is still important to consult a doctor/therapist to examine the underlying reasons for your anxiety.
What Are Natural Sources of GABA?
Before reaching for any pills, consider these GABA-rich food sources:
• almonds
• tree nuts
• bananas
• beef liver
• broccoli
• brown rice
• halibut
• lentils
• oats, whole grain
• oranges, citrus fruits
• rice bran
• spinach
• walnuts
• whole wheat, whole grains
What Are GABA-Boosting Supplements?
There are quite a few GABA-boosting supplements, and while not quite as effective as benzodiazepines (prescription anxiety drugs), they contain far fewer side effects, such as a hangover effect and risk of addiction. Some supplements are:
• Valerian
• L-Theanine
• Passionflower
• Chamomile
• Hops
• Catnip
• Kava Kava (not safe to use if taking SSRI)
• Kanna (not safe to use if taking SSRI)
One to avoid: the actual supplement "GABA," because research is inconclusive that it crosses the blood-brain barrier which is essential for effectiveness.
Tags: Anxiety Disorder, anxiety disorder, anxiety What, , , stressful situations, taking SSRI