Saturday, May 19, 2012

Reasons For Taking A GABA Supplement

August 17, 2010 by  
Filed under Supplements

Many people choose to take a GABA supplement. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid has a huge effect on many functions of the human body. Supplementation may help some conditions. It can also improve general health and the way someone feels.

It is classed in science as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, although it is actually an amino acid. It has a large role to play in many body processes. Supplements can therefore have an effect on several different conditions.

As an inhibitory neurotransmitter, it regulates neural activity. It helps to achieve a balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain. The inhibiting effect helps the body to relax and induce sleep, as well as lowering muscle tension and helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. It is also involved in producing endorphins, which make people feel good when performing activity such as exercise. The compound can also produce higher Human Growth Hormone levels, having an anabolic and lipotrophic effect. This means the body can build more muscle and have a better body fat to lean tissue ratio. Levels of Human Growth Hormone diminish as people age, maintaining a higher level may aid the prevention of age-related disease.

Decreased levels can be associated with a wide variety of symptoms, including hypertension, muscle tremors, anxiety and panic attacks. Long term anxiety and stress can have a negative impact on the immune system. This may be a factor in many diseases.

The human body synthesizes the neurotransmitter itself, but levels can be boosted by eating foods with higher levels, such as almonds, lentils and bananas. Green tea also contains L-theanine, which acts as a precursor to GABA. However, many people choose to use a supplement.

Different forms of the supplement are available to buy. Tablets, powder, capsules and tablets that can be dissolved under the tongue can be sourced, and which is purchased is largely down to personal choice. Dosage varies widely, with the actual product and condition important factors. A medical professional should be consulted to make the right decision for the individual.

There are different varieties on offer depending on the reason for supplementation. Those for body builders and athletes are primarily GABA. These are used for its muscle building and fat to muscle tissue values.

Products designed for those with anxiety, ADHD, insomnia and other such issues may contain several other ingredients. Extracts such as Valerian root may help with sleep. Other additions may help with mood balance.

Before starting any kind of supplements such as this a qualified medical professional should be consulted to ensure the correct dosage and regime. If suffering from a food allergy the ingredients of any GABA supplement should be checked carefully. Vegetarians may wish to avoid capsules as they commonly include gelatin.

See more on GABA Supplement and on GABA

Speak Your Mind

Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!