Take GABA for Stress, Anxiety, and Insomnia

If you’re spending any time at all watching the news or on social media, you might think there’s no way you’re going to lower your stress levels any time soon. These just seem to be the times we are living in. However, what you may not know is that getting certain nutrients into your daily routine can help, and one of the most important ones is called gamma aminobutyric acid — also known as GABA.

GABA is an amino acid, a fancy word for a compound that forms the building block of a protein. Amino acids are responsible for several functions in the body, and GABA works on the brain in a way that helps regulate our nervous system — more specifically, our response to stress.

GABA acts like a neurotransmitter, or a chemical signal in the brain which helps to block nervous system activity. In other words, GABA works directly on the brain to lower your stress response, and can decrease feelings of anxiety and fear. Some research suggests it may even help prevent seizures and induce sleep in those suffering with insomnia. On top of that, certain disorders are also characterized by low levels of GABA, including ADHD, Parkinson’s disease, panic disorders, anxiety, and other mood disorders like depression. So adding GABA to your daily routine could help combat symptoms.

Due to its stress-reducing properties, GABA has become a popular supplement in recent years. This is especially true because there aren’t that many GABA food sources, though you can get some by eating fermented foods like kimchi and miso. That being said, always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. For a GABA supplement we trust, try this one from Amazing Nutrition ($9.90, Amazon).

Here’s to a better mood and more restful sleep!