GABA Plus is a uniquely formulated product that provides gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a key neurotransmitter in the body involved in a normal calm/stress response. In addition, it supplies other calming nutrients including glycine, niacinamide, pantothenic acid and vitamin B6.
- Supports a healthy response to stress
- Decreases alcohol and smoking dependency
- Improves sleep during stressful times
GABA Plus is a synergistic formula of GABA, glycine, and B vitamins designed to support a healthy response to stress. A nutrient-dense diet, proper sleep, and stress management techniques are the foundation for coping well with psychological stress. But, when chronic, unrelenting stress increases the body’s need for certain nutrients, targeted supplementation may facilitate greater resilience. Moreover, alcohol consumption and smoking—coping mechanisms individuals may turn to during periods of heightened stress—may impair absorption and metabolism of some of the nutrients needed to mount an appropriate stress response, triggering the need for supplementation.
The synergistic blend of ingredients in GABA Plus is formulated to support neurotransmitter synthesis, adrenal gland function, cellular energy generation, and a calm mind. The adrenal glands, key players in mounting a healthy response to stress, have a high demand for B vitamins, which are commonly depleted during stress as a result of overtaxing these glands. Thus, it may be beneficial to provide these essential nutrients in supplemental form during periods of acute and chronic stress to facilitate repletion and ensure the body has an adequate supply to draw from.
Additionally, B vitamins may aid in the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels. The irritability, emotional lability, or feelings of panic some individuals experience during stressful situations may be the result of unrecognized acute hypoglycemia. By providing required enzyme cofactors and calming neurotransmitters, GABA Plus may help even out the “highs and lows” that may be contributing to difficulty coping with everyday stress.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a naturally occurring amino acid in the brain and a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA serves as a critical calming agent for the body, helping to combat stress and anxiety.
The brain synthesizes GABA from glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter. These two neurotransmitters work together in an orchestrated system of checks and balances. An inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA blocks nerve impulses, slowing down the activity of nerve cells and preventing them from over-firing. Frequent over-firing of brain cells can lead to cell death, meaning that stress can actually kill brain cells. Stressful situations may decrease GABA levels, causing this delicate system to become unbalanced. Acute psychological stress has been shown to decrease prefrontal brain GABA levels by 18% in healthy adults. Supplementation with GABA may be of benefit in helping individuals cope with both acute and chronic stress.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) is a cofactor in cellular energy production. Over 400 enzymes require the coenzymes synthesized from niacin—NAD and NADP—primarily as electron donors and acceptors for redox reactions in metabolism. NAD functions mainly in energy-producing reactions involving the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Niacin may also have a mild tranquilizing effect, making it potentially beneficial for those with obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders. Additionally, this vitamin (along with chromium) is a component of the glucose tolerance factor, which may aid in blood sugar regulation, and consequently, a more balanced response to stress.
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) is a water-soluble vitamin and precursor in the biosynthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), an essential coenzyme in a variety of life-sustaining biochemical and metabolic reactions. CoA is involved in the synthesis of essential fats, cholesterol, and steroid hormones. These roles may be why B5 has long been recognized as supporting proper function of the adrenal glands.
Vitamin B6 is a required cofactor for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin, and L-Dopa to dopamine. The GABA-glutamate cycle also requires B6 for glutamate decarboxylase, the enzyme that converts glutamate to GABA, making this nutrient indispensable for neurotransmitter synthesis and a healthy response to stress.
Vitamin B6 is also needed for gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, instrumental processes in maintaining steady blood glucose and energy levels, which may help support maintaining equanimity in stressful situations.
Glycine, the smallest amino acid, is synthesized from serine in the human body, but endogenous synthesis in healthy adults has been shown to fall short of meeting the many biological and metabolic demands for this amino acid. Individuals experiencing acute or chronic stress may have an even greater demand for glycine, making this a conditionally essential amino acid and increasing the need for supplementation.
Glycine is a well-known inhibitory neurotransmitter: the binding of glycine to its neuronal receptor results in an influx of chloride ions, leading to membrane hyperpolarization and inhibition of the response to excitatory neurotransmitters.
Owing to its inhibitory function, glycine may be helpful for improving sleep quality, which, in itself, may be beneficial for supporting healthy responses to psychological stress.
Suggested Use: Take one daily or as directed by your health care provider
Does Not Contain: Gluten, wheat, soy, tree nuts, peanuts, eggs, dairy, fish, or crustacean shellfish.
Caution: If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.