Using GABA As a Nutritional Supplement - Basic Information for Your Edification

GABA, the common name for gamma aminobutyric acid, is one of the most important nutrients in the body. It is used by the brain to promote calmness and tranquility.

GABA supports normal brain function by helping block stress-related messages from reaching receptor sites in the central nervous system.

The production and synthesis of GABA is limited and controlled by B-vitamin compounds, particularly vitamin B6. This nonessential amino acid is formed from glutamic acid with the help of vitamin B6.

GABA is the most widespread inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. A neurotransmitter facilitates communication between nerve cells in the central nervous system. GABA's main purpose is to prevent the over-firing of nerve cells, decreasing neuron activity and promoting calmness.

GABA is also important in mediating muscle activities and in triggering certain glandular activity. It is directly responsible for regulating muscle tone.

Food sources or supplements high in protein and vitamin B6 help maintain adequate GABA levels.

GABA supplements have had some runs of popularity with bodybuilders over the years. Most of these runs were based on the findings of a University of Milan (Italy) study which reported that it had a dramatic effect on the production of HGH (human growth hormone), increasing blood plasma levels by 550%.

While it definitely has supporters in the bodybuilding community, opinions on its ability to significantly help the bodybuilder achieve his basic goals, fat loss and muscle gain, are mixed.

GABA cannot be efficiently transported through the blood and into the brain (cannot pass the brain-blood barrier). Therefore, direct supplementation within the diet will not make it to the brain.

The effectiveness of GABA supplements as they relate to HGH therefore is reliant on the role that blood concentrations of GABA play in triggering growth hormone release.

Indirectly, some reported benefits of supplementation could have a positive effect on HGH secretion. GABAs ability to reduce anxiety and increase deep sleep could encourage increased growth hormone release. This effect could also be anti-catabolic, allowing the body to retain more muscle post-exercise and recuperate faster.

In general, GABA dissolves quickly in water and has no taste. It can be mixed with water or juice and drink.

Individual preferences vary. The suggested serving size for GABA is 750 milligrams taken once or twice daily on an empty stomach prior to sleep.

GABA is safe at suggested serving sized. In higher quantities, GABA can increase anxiety and insomnia. It may also cause numbness around the mouth and tingling in the extremities, mild nausea, a slight shortness of breath that lasts for a few minutes and temporary tingling of the skin.

Those with liver or kidney disease should not take this or any other amino acid supplement without first consulting a physician.

Benny Cumia is a highly experienced fitness expert, and has been researching the ways that dietary supplementation can improve fitness and performance. Learn more about where to find the GABA Supplement for you.