GABA or gamma is a naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a main neurotransmitter in the brain. Researchers have found this unique amino acid to block, inhibit certain brain signals, and has the ability to decrease activity in the nervous system.
Researchers now believe the mechanisms to be beneficial for anxiety, stress and fear and have even considered it a strong candidate to combat seizures.
GABA is available in supplement form. Here’s our top picks for the best GABA supplements:
Thorne Research – PharmaGABA-100
Thorne Research- PharmaGABA-100 is a great beta supplement considering its simple but effective formula.
Each dose consists of 100mg of natural-source GABA, which has been shown to outperform synthetic versions in clinical studies.
This product does not contain inactive ingredients or harmful dyes or fillers.
Thorne Research has confirmed that this product is dairy-free, tree nut-free, egg-free, peanut-free, Soy Free, Fish Free, Shellfish Free.
Thorne Research – PharmaGABA-100 is available for purchase on Amazon.
Nutricost Pure GABA 500G Powder
If you’re looking for a powder GABA supplement then this may be for you.
Each dose contains a sufficient amount of 100% pure GABA powder measuring at 500mg per dose.
The company was sure to include a scoop so don’t worry about running to your local store to grab one.
Nutricost Pure GABA 500g Powder is manufactured in a GMP compliant, FDA registered facility.
The company has stated that this product is gluten-free and non-GMO.
Naturally Sourced GABA, 365 Capsules
Each bottle of naturally sourced GABA contains 365 capsules per bottle.
There are 850mg per dose, which has been shown to be higher than other leading products.
No Stearates or rice fillers are found in this product and the company is sure that this product is the best they offer a money backed guarantee if you are not satisfied with the product.
This product is made in the USA and is Gluten-Free.
Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal GABA with L-Theanine
This beta supplement is in liquid form and has been formulated using nano technology for immediate effects.
Each bottle contains 25 servings and delivers 250mg of GABA and 100mg of L-Theanine.
The company claims that their formula is achieved with liposomes that are small enough to pass between cells, thus making this product work instantaneously.
The product does not contain gluten or any harmful fillers or additives.
Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal GABA with L-Theanine is available for purchase on Amazon here.
Frunutta GABA Under The Tongue Instant Dissolve Tablets
There are 90 dissolvable tablets per bottle. Each tablet contains 100mg of GABA, 2mg of stevia leaf extract lactose, natural cherry flavor, and acacia gum.
The company has confirmed that this product is vegetarian, gluten-free, preservative-free, dye-free, GMO-free, sugar-free, and additive-free.
In addition to the friendly formula this product has been manufactured in a FDA-registered, NSF-certified facility under strict GMP guidelines in the state of California.
Frunutta GABA Under The Tongue Instant Dissolve Tablets are available for purchase on Amazon here.
Horbaach GABA 750mg 100 Capsules
This product is not only manufactured in the USA but it is manufactured in a cGMP certified facility.
Each bottle contains 100 capsules which contain 750mg of GABA per dose.
The company has stated that this product does not contain any preservatives, gluten, yeast, milk, lactose, soy, artificial color or sweeteners.
Horbaach GABA is now available for purchase on Amazon.
Category Winners
Best Overall
The best overall GABA supplement is Horbaach due to its long list of certifications, adequate dose and the simple fact that this company is a trusted brand and used by thousands of Americans across the country.
Best gaba supplement for anxiety
When treating anxiety you want something that works quick! This is why we chose Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal GABA with L-Theanine.
This liquid form has been manufactured using nanotechnology, the company claims that the product works the moment it comes into contact with the tongue.
Best gaba supplement for sleep
Frunutta GABA Under The Tongue Instant Dissolve Tablets is the best GABA supplement for sleep.
Each tablet dissolves quickly and does not overload the body with too much GABA.
There is no caffeine or inactive ingredients so this product won’t keep you up at night.
What is GABA?
GABA or gamma-Aminobutyric acid is one of three main neurotransmitters found in the central nervous system.
This naturally occurring amino acid has the role of reducing neuronal excitability.
GABA is basically a chemical that has the ability to attach to nerve cell receptors and affect their ability to receive, create or send messages to other nerve cells (neurons), which has been shown to host soothing effects and relaxation.
For this reason GABA is classified as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and its functionality is considered essential to the body.
GABA deficiencies have been directly associated with conditions such as epilepsy, seizures and mood disorders.
Benefits of GABA
GABA has a direct effect on the brain, researchers have associated GABA supplementation with reduced anxiety, improved mood, lower blood pressure, relaxation, pain relief and improved sleep.
People may also seek GABA supplements for:
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Natural ADHD Medication
- Burn Fat
- Increase Muscle Mass
Side Effects
GABA can interact with many commonly prescribed medications such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, anti-seizure medications (AEDs), anesthetics and barbiturates.
In many instances GABA interactions with seizure medications and antidepressants can cause convulsive seizures because they can inhibit the GABA-receptor chloride uptake.
We know that not enough GABA can cause seizures, however too much GABA means that the brain is not getting enough activity which has been directly associated with hypersomnia, lack of energy and daytime sleepiness.
When GABA is first taken one might experience:
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- Gastric Distress
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Muscle Weakness
- Difficulty Breathing
Who is GABA For?
GABA is naturally occurring in the body so many people can take it without experiencing any side effects.
Those who suffer from low GABA levels should be taking a GABA supplement to avoid epilepsy, chronic pain and mood disorders that all stem from low GABA levels.
Low GABA levels have also been associated with alcohol cravings, because alcohol directly targets GABA receptors and helps us relax.
How to Take GABA
Depending on the selected form of GABA use will vary. Some products that are in pill form are just washed down with water.
Powder form GABA supplements are commonly mixed with water or juices, and have been formulated to dissolve when in contact with liquids.
The liquid form GABA supplements are either topically administered in the body or taken orally, be sure to check the recommendation on each bottle for the best results.
Recommended Dose
To find the perfect dose for you we recommend first consulting with your healthcare practitioner, and disclosing any known medical condition(s), along with any medications you are taking to avoid any adverse counter interactions.
It’s recommended for any user to start slow when first taking GABA, this is to see how their body will react, then gradually incorporate higher doses.
Sleep- 100-200mg
Stress & Anxiety- 150-200mg
High Blood Pressure- 10-20mg
Personal Wellness- 150-200mg
How to Pick a High-Quality GABA Supplement
When choosing a high quality GABA supplement there are many things to consider.
Manufacture of Origin
Many countries do not have strict manufacturing guidelines like the United states, so be sure to choose a product made right here in a cGMP facility that tests for quality, potency and cleanliness.
Plus you won’t have to worry about the product waiting or being lost in international transit.
Ingredients
Before buying the product that intrigued you the most be sure to check its ingredients, a variety of GABA supplements have been shown to contain harmful additives and fillers to make it cost friendly on their end.
Dosage
Choose a product that has an adequate dose of GABA, no matter the product it should contain a higher amount of GABA in comparison to other ingredients.
Conclusion
GABA is essential to our everyday life. Researchers are now concluding more evidence supporting the benefits of supplementation of GABA supplements.
Research suggests that GABA supplements can stop the body’s GABA levels from decreasing, and improve qualities of life by promoting increased mood and relaxation and other mechanisms in the body.