What is GABA?

Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid produced naturally in the brain and found in certain foods. It functions as a neurotransmitter, facilitating communication among brain cells. GABA reduces the activity of neurons in the brain and central nervous system, which may increase relaxation and calm, reduce stress, balance mood, alleviate pain, and boost sleep. In other words, this is a brain chemical that blocks certain communication between nerve cells in the brain, potentially making you calm or boosting your mood. When levels of GABA are low, this may be linked to: anxiety or mood disorders, epilepsy, and even chronic pain. 

Chemical Produced by the Brain

GABA is made in brain cells from glutamate. It functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it blocks nerve impulses.  Glutamate acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter. Therefore, when it binds to adjacent cells, it encourages them to “fire” and send a nerve impulse. On the other hand, GABA does the opposite and tells the adjoining cells not to “fire” and not to send an impulse. Without GABA, nerve cells fire too often and too easily.

As a result, anxiety disorders such as panic attacks, seizures, and numerous other conditions including addiction, are related to low GABA activity. It hinders the transmission of nerve impulses from one neuron to another, thereby having a calming or quieting influence. In order to understand the effect, caffeine, which inhibits, GABA release, is a good example. The less GABA, the more nerve transmissions occur. Think about when you have had too much coffee: that is the sensation of glutamate without enough GABA.

Found in Foods, Popular as a Supplement

Although, GABA is a brain chemical that some researchers think may be linked to improved mood or relaxation, many people take it as a supplement to improve both mood and relieve anxiety. You can get it in supplements, but you can also increase it through foods. A variety of foods contain substances such as flavonoids that influence how GABA works in the brain. These foods include: vegetables (beans, peas, mushrooms), fruits (tomatoes), yogurt, kimchi, white tea, and even red wine. Other foods may boost its production in the body, including whole grains, nuts, fish including shrimp, and even cocoa.

GABA and Kratom

After much research, ETHA is proud to introduce its first true kratom blend. MidNight Dream™ combines ETHA Premium NightFall Blend™ with GABA to support deep, slow wave sleep†. Although at ETHA we don’t come out with new products very often, when we do, it is something very special. We are excited to share MidNight Dream™ with you. The neurotransmitter inhibitors in GABA quiet the mind, while speciogynine and paynantheine alkaloids in kratom support muscle relaxation†.

Try adding MidNight Dream™ to your bedtime routine and spend more time in bed…sleeping.