GABA is a dietary supplement aimed to prevent mood disorders such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia or depression. This formula was developed by Vitabase, a manufacturer that provides good quality health supplements at reasonable prices. Any customer is given the opportunity to build his own business based on their products. From what we have gathered online, customers are pleased with Vitabase’s marketing plan, customer service and their processing and shipping systems.
According to the manufacturer, this formula helps in the maintenance of healthy GABA levels which can drop due to a variety of environmental health reasons. GABA is a non-essential amino acid found in the brain that is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Supplementing with GABA is said to support the transmission of messages from one cell to another and also help the central nervous system respond to stressful situations. As a result, it may promote relaxation, restful sleep and the production of growth hormone.
1) Details on GABA Ingredients and Uses
GABA includes the following ingredients: Vitamin B6 (from Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid), Rice, Flour, Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate, and Silica.
2) Is GABA Right for You?
Each capsule of GABA delivers 500 mg of Gamma Aminobutyric Acid and 2 mg of Vitamin B6. This vitamin is added to the mix because it helps in the natural production of GABA from glutamic acid.
Controversy surrounds the effectiveness of GABA supplements. This nonessential amino acid is naturally produced inside our brains, being the second most common neurotransmitter chemical in the human brain. Although GABA is crucial to the growth and development of your nerve cells and your mental health, supplemental GABA may not be able to pass the blood-brain barrier. A series of studies conducted in 2008 proved that Gamma Aminobutyric Acid could elevate growth hormone levels by stimulating the pituitary gland. The results also suggested that GABA may be able to enter the central nervous system through the pituitary gland. However, more evidence is needed to support those findings.
If GABA can enter the central nervous system, it acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, reducing the activity of neurons. It’s calming, inhibitory effects upon neuronal activity contribute to reducing anxiety, nervousness and muscle tension. Some researchers support the use of GABA supplements in the management of stress and generalized anxiety disorders.
The manufacturer recommends taking one capsule 2 to 3 times daily as needed, preferably with water or juice on an empty stomach.
3) How Much Does GABA Cost?
GABA is sold by 100 capsules for a relatively low price. Each bottle should be enough for more than a month of treatment.
Probably the most convenient way to acquire this product is to order it directly from the manufacturer. Their prices are usually lower than those offered by other retailers, and the shipping is done within 2-3 business days. You may also purchase this product from various retailers, both online or offline. Please note the price varies between retailers, sometimes by a significant margin.
4) Bottom Line – Does It Really Work?
The manufacturer’s claims are bold, but unfortunately, they are not completely supported by scientific evidence. So far, oral supplements of GABA have been proven to stimulate the pituitary gland into producing more growth hormone, but no concrete evidence suggests that they may help with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress. The real problem with these supplements is their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. If GABA cannot get to the central nervous system, supplementing with it should offer no real benefit.
Unfortunately, the number of testimonials we could find about this formula is low. More testimonials posted online would have helped us determine whether GABA was useful or not.