GABA

History and Uses:
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an all natural compound classified as a neurotransmitter; that is, a natural substance that helps nerve impulses cross synapses and communicate with one another. Normally, the brain pumps out all the GABA we need, but unfortunately, due to a poor diet, exposure to environmental toxins or other factors, levels of GABA within your body system may become depleted. Too little of this important compound may result in anxiety, irritability and insomnia. A deficiency of GABA has also been linked to depression. Because various safety issues have recently surfaced concerning the use of the popular tranquilizing herb, Kava, nutritionally oriented physicians have begun recommending GABA more frequently. Basically, the clinical effect of both GABA and Kava appears to be the same; namely, they're both gentle and non-sedating tranquilizers. In addition to its positive effect on the nervous system, numerous medical studies have proven GABA to have many other important positive effects on the body following supplementation. First, GABA naturally stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to secrete higher levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH), and as a result, people taking GABA have a tendency to lose excess body fat. In fact, recent studies have found that higher levels of circulating Human Growth Hormone (HGH) are associated with less body fat and a far better lean tissue-to-stored fat ratio. Second, due to its ability to increase circulating HGH levels, GABA may have many powerful anti-ageing properties. It has been reported that people who take GABA feel rejuvenated; in other words, they generally feel more youthful and energetic. In fact, it is said that a majority of people taking GABA report improvements to their skin, while many older individuals report a return to darker hair. Third, studies have shown GABA to improve sleep cycles leading to more restful sleeping and more interesting, vivid dreaming. Fourth, GABA has shown powerful stabilizing effects on blood pressure. Finally, research has demonstrated GABA to be a very effective analgesic, eliminating pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis and lower back pain. If the mood swings of PMS are causing you to lose sleep, try taking GABA for a week to ten days before, and during, your monthly menstrual cycle. For insomnia, take GABA about an hour before bedtime - it is believed to have a calming effect that can help you fall asleep. If anxiety is contributing to your sleep problems, combine GABA with other natural sedatives, such as the Valerian Root. Like other amino acids, GABA is best taken between meals for optimum absorption (one hour before or two hours after eating).