5 Tips to Top Up Your GABA

The human brain communicates via special chemicals called neurotransmitters which are made up from essential amino acids. These neurotransmitters (chemicals) affect our moods, memory, relaxation; according to the activities of the various neurotransmitters. Too much of one particular type of chemical can cause us to be extremely happy whereas, should we be lacking in another, we could end up feeling very down, tired and de-motivated.

We all have hundreds of these neurotransmitters in our brains, however the main ones are:

• Adrenalin – stimulates and motivates our ability to cope with stressful situations.
• Endorphins – Makes us feel ecstatic and euphoric.
• Serotonin – banishes our depressive moods and promotes happy feelings.
• Acetylcholine – improves mental alertness and memory.
• Dopamine and noradrenalin – energises and gives us the feeling of being in control.
• GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) – neurotransmitter, which relaxes and promotes calmness after a stressful experience. However, GABA also regulates the neurotransmitters, serotonin, dopamine, noradrenalin, thereby playing a significant part in moderating our moods, thus when we are low in this neurotransmitter we will feel very down as well as constantly tired and depressed.

In order to chill out and relax, many people are prescribed pharmaceutical products such as antidepressants however there are herbs and supplements, which will do this job just as effectively.The herbal preparation, Valerian for example, encourages GABA activity, reduces anxiety, tension and insomnia. Bear in mind though, that if you are taking any other prescribed drugs such as antihistamines, muscle relaxants or sedatives, you should not take Valerian at the same time.

Another herb which encourages sleep and relaxation is Passion Flower, however, it has been known to be hallucinogenic in high doses, so take care not to overdose on this particular herb, as you may experience more than a good nights sleep. A, safe dosage, is somewhere, in the region, of 100mg to 200mg per day but always check the recommended dosage on the product you choose.

One herbal remedy used for centuries as a relaxant is Hops, which, essentially, calms the nerves and induces sleep as its sedative action directly targets the central nervous system.

Then there is GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) in pill form – which when taken at 1000mg, twice daily, acts directly on the brain, calming as well as enhancing your mood, reducing insomnia, anxiety and tension. Research has also shown that GABA stimulates the anterior pituitary, leading to higher levels of Human Growth Hormone, which assists in the increase of muscle as well as reducing body fat, thus helping to promote weight loss. As we get older HGH levels get depleted, therefore any increase in HGH also provides an anti-aging effect.

Taurine is an amino acid which has an important role within the brain as it is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, similar to GABA in function, in that it assists in the reduction of anxiety and stabilizes an over excited brain. Taurine is also effective in the treatment of alcoholism, insomnia, irritability and depression to highlight a few of its attributes.

To summarize therefore, if anyone wishes to chill out and top up their GABA, using the herbs and supplements mentioned, will certainly produce the desired results, with the added benefit of avoiding the pharmaceutical preparations and their many potential unpleasant side effects.

Anne M White
http://www.aloe-vera-guide.com