What is GABA and why is it so important?
GABA. A small name with a big impact. You might have come across it in books, blogs, or podcasts about neurotransmitters. But what exactly is GABA? Let us enlighten you.
What is GABA and how does this neurotransmitter work in your brain?
GABA stands for gamma-aminobutyric acid. It is a neurotransmitter, or a chemical messenger that helps nerve cells communicate with each other. While some neurotransmitters activate the brain, GABA does the opposite: it inhibits overactivity.
Your body produces GABA itself from glutamate – a substance that is stimulating. This conversion is carried out with the help of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and vitamin B6. Without sufficient B6, this conversion becomes more challenging. So, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet!
GABA in food: natural sources of this neurotransmitter
Although your body produces GABA, you can also obtain it through your diet. Consider fermented products like kimchi, miso, and tempeh. Brown rice, spinach, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes also naturally contain small amounts of GABA.
Additionally, there are nutrients that support GABA production. L-theanine, for example, an amino acid found in green tea. And as mentioned earlier: vitamin B6. Plenty of reasons to eat healthily and varied!
The relationship between GABA and alcohol: what you need to know
Alcohol temporarily enhances the effect of GABA, explaining the relaxed feeling after a drink. However, this effect is short-lived. In the long term, alcohol can disrupt your natural GABA balance. If you want to support your GABA activity, it’s better to focus on proper nutrition and sufficient relaxation.
Good to know
GABA is a neurotransmitter. Your body produces it, but diet and lifestyle choices can support this process.
Sources
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