Benefits
Relaxation
In human studies, oral GABA increased calming alpha brain-wave activity and reduced stress-related beta waves.
Easier sleep
GABA has been shown to shorten the time it takes to fall asleep and support deeper non-REM sleep.
Stress support
By promoting relaxation, GABA helps take the edge off everyday stress.
Mechanism of action
Inhibitory neurotransmission
GABA is the body's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, calming over-excited nerve signaling.
Gut-brain and autonomic effects
Because oral GABA crosses into the brain poorly, its calming effects are thought to act partly through the enteric nervous system and a shift toward parasympathetic activity.
Clinical trials
Study of the effect of oral GABA administration on sleep in humans. (Yamatsu et al. 2016, Food Science and Biotechnology)
Healthy adults.
Oral GABA shortened sleep latency and supported sleep measures versus placebo.