GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) is a non-essential amino acid that plays an important role in neurotransmission. Now offers 500mg of this important neurotransmitter + 2mg of vitamin B-6 for its synergistic effect. Gaba works to inhibit over-stimulation of nerve cell activity in the brain which may help to promote relaxation and a sense of calm. A good choice for those who experience anxiety due to stress or those who experience difficulty relaxing.
Some amino acids can be manufactured in the body from other amino acids and are thus called non-essential. GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid, is one of these amino acids. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a brain chemical that regulates the electrical conduction of the brain. It is found mainly in the eyes and brain .
GABA works in the same way as prescription tranquilizers, like valium, but without the chance of addiction. In times of stress, anxiety or hyperactivity GABA binds in the motor centers in the brain. It can treat low sex drive if it is caused by stress, hypertension due to tension in the vessel walls and epilepsy from errant brain signals. Natural health practitioners for stress, hyperactivity, anxiety, hypertension, epilepsy, low libido and BPH recommend GABA
It is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it regulates brain and nerve cell activity by inhibiting the number of neurons firing in the brain. GABA is referred to as the brain's natural calming agent. By inhibiting over-stimulation of the brain, GABA may help promote relaxation and ease nervous tension. It can be used as an alternative to the herb kava kava.
GABA is found in capsules, tablets or as a powder. It is best absorbed when taken between meals. If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, take it with an amino acid complex to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids.
Anxiety & Nervousness
In most cases, anxiety is due to thoughts or emotions. The situation that brings on anxiety is individual but our body reacts to the perceived threat the same way it would if there was an actual threat. In other cases, substances like caffeine, nicotine, toxins or lack of sleep can contribute to anxiety. Medical conditions such as hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, strokes, mitral valve prolapse, iron deficiency anemia or adrenal tumours cause the nervous system to respond with anxiety symptoms
Anxiety causes physical stress on the body. The autonomic nervous system is activated resulting in a sense of uneasiness, sweating and trembling or outright anxiety attacks. Attacks can include diarrhea, heart palpitations, memory blocks and inappropriate behaviour.
Prolonged anxiety can manifest with headaches, digestive complaints, impotence, insomnia, an inability to relax or a sensation of a lump in the throat.
Conventional treatment involves the use of antidepressants or tranquilizing drugs to reduce panic attacks. These treatments do not assess the root cause of the anxiety. Side effects of these drugs include drowsiness, light-headedness, fatigue, weight gain, decreased libido and dependency.
Dietary treatment of anxiety begins by an assessment of nutritional status. Deficiencies of nutrients can alter the functioning of the nervous system. Balancing blood sugar is important because fluctuations cause anxiety symptoms. Avoid caffeinated drinks, alcohol, tobacco, ephedra and refined flour and sugar products. Eat a whole foods diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains (especially oats), nutritional yeast, eggs and ocean going fish.
Ingredients: Gaba (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid), Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Contains no: sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, milk, egg, preservatives
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule 2 or 3 times daily as needed, preferably with juice or water on an empty stomach.
Warnings: Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you are taking prescription anti-anxiety medications, or have epilepsy. Using anti-anxiety agents with GABA may produce additive effects.
