What is GABA? (gamma aminobutyric acid)

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, or GABA, is the neurotransmitter responsible for calming the neurons in your brain and central nervous system. If GABA is low it can result in issues such as anxiety, insomnia and depression. Anxiety is the most common symptom of low GABA. By understanding that GABA is the calming neurotransmitter, you can see that when GABA is low, anxiety can be heightened. Anxiety is associated with an overactive brain, repetitive thoughts, restlessness and nervousness and even muscle spasms. All of these suggest hyperactivity of the nerves and potentially a low level of GABA in the body. Sleep GABA allows your mind and body to relax. If your levels are low, your brain has trouble switching off at night and so does your body. Depression Most mental health issues involve an imbalance in neurotransmitters. Depression is no different. Studies show that there is an imbalance in GABA as well as serotonin in people suffering major depressive disorders. Increasing GABA through your diet by increasing protein or glutamine (as seen below) can help to decrease depressive emotions, whilst introducing herbs such as St Johns wort can assist in regulating GABA. Glutamine (glutamic acid) is an amino acid that is essential for GABA production. The following plant based foods are high in glutamic acid:

● Onion
● Broccoli
● Lentils
● Legumes
● Sunflower seeds
● Cashews
● Walnuts
● Oats
Meat
● Goat
● FishChicken thigh
● Turkey
● Duck