Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter within the central nervous system, which counterbalances the excitatory impact of glutamate on neuronal activity. Typically, GABA is recognized for its potential to promote relaxation and reduce occasional nervous tension, as well as to increase alpha brain waves, which assist in sustaining a calm state and better concentration.
Furthermore, GABA may promote healthy immune system function by aiding in the maintenance of normal secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels, an indicator of immune activity associated with stress. In a study involving individuals with acrophobia, a control group that crossed a suspension bridge experienced a 35% decrease in salivary SIgA levels, while subjects who received Pharma GABA had increased SIgA levels, indicating a relaxation effect.
GABA and its receptors may also assist in temporarily reducing wakefulness, promoting normal sleep latency, and supporting slow-wave sleep. Pharma GABA is readily absorbed and binds to GABA receptors in the peripheral nervous system, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the branch of the autonomic nervous system responsible for producing the "relaxation response." In a double-blind, crossover study, 12 healthy young adult males who consumed 30 mg of Pharma GABA per meal after an overnight fast experienced significant increase in overall autonomic nervous system and parasympathetic activities compared to placebo, suggesting that Pharma GABA may promote relaxation by modulating ANS activity.
Additionally, Pharma GABA may promote memory and cognitive function. In two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trials with healthy participants aged 40 years and above, those who received 100 or 200 mg of GABA daily for 12 weeks either maintained or improved cognitive function, respectively.
