Gamma-aminobutyric acid (Gamma-aminobutyric acid). Gamma-aminobutyric acid - instructions for use

Hello friends! Gamma aminobutyric acid is an amino acid that improves sleep and relieves mental arousal, and also has a fat burning effect. However, let's take a closer look at this wonderful supplement in the article.

As I said, I really like to conduct various experiments with sports nutrition and supplements. This allows you to understand which supplements to take and which ones to refuse.

This year I plan to release a cool practical material on sports nutrition. I am sure that you will like the material, because. experience in use sports nutrition pretty big. But, now is not about that.

Today I wanted to talk to you about another great supplement I'm taking, gamma-aminobutyric acid.

Gamma aminobutyric acid

Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA or GABA) is a very important MEDIATOR brain, which improves sleep and eliminates mental arousal.

Someone can say that they don’t experience any mental excitement anyway, but for us bodybuilders, people who strive for a beautiful physique, GABA is not interesting for those.

GABA can stimulate the anterior pituitary gland, which, as we remember, is responsible for the PRODUCTION of SOMATOTROPIN (growth hormone).

About growth hormone and its magical properties I can talk for a very long time, this is the topic of a separate article.

The main three properties of growth hormone are:

• Fat catabolism (you burn fat).
• Anabolism muscle tissue(Your muscles grow).
• Healing and regenerating effect (somatotropin is known for its unique property- help in the restoration of joints).

Thus, we have smoothly approached the main effects of GABA.

The effects of this supplement include:

On this moment There are many studies on gamma aminobutyric acid who consider it from the point of view of a mediator in the central nervous system.

Unfortunately, very few studies I could find that are aimed at studying this supplement in terms of the production of somatotropin.

There is a certain problem with gamma-aminobutyric acid, it is very difficult to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, respectively, and into the brain too, where it can show what it is capable of to the maximum.

In two rather ancient experiments (about thirty years ago) it was proved that GABA in the form of a supplement can increase the concentration of growth hormone by 400-600%!

This is especially cool for those who do not use growth hormone and steroids.

I looked even deeper and found a 2008 study by Jarrow D.F., McCoy S. and Borst S.E., which confirmed that GABA increases growth hormone secretion BOTH AT REST AND AFTER TRAINING!

Here is a jar of GABA I have.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid should be taken along with vitamin B6.

Because vitamin B6, according to recent research, is the limiting cofactor of gamma-aminobutyric acid.

Synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid is SENSITIVE TO VITAMIN B6 LEVEL.

If you take GABA separately from vitamin B6, you may experience:

• Sleep disturbance.
• Nervousness.
• Increased risk of impaired cardiovascular function.

There are studies that say that maximum effect from GABA in terms of the production of growth hormone is observed if gamma-aminobutyric acid is taken POST-WORKOUT.

In general, there are also studies that GABA is effective, both at rest and after training, but following this recommendation is not at all difficult, so I recommend taking this neurotransmitter POST-WORKOUT.

Reception: It is better to take GABA POST-WORKOUT at 2-4 grams per serving.

If you want to improve sleep, then take 500-1000 mg of GABA before bed.

Attention! Raise the dosage very carefully. Start with about 500-1000 mg per day and gradually increase it to 2-4 grams.

The fact is that the substance can lead to mild side effects:

• The face is on fire.
• The pulse and breathing become more frequent.

These side effects can only appear if you immediately start with horse dosages of more than 4 grams per day.

Side effects pass over time (the body gets used to GABA).

My experience with GABA

About 2 months ago I received a package in the mail with a bunch of different supplements that I decided to test, thereby replenishing the stock of useful articles on my blog.

I noticed that you really like it when I write about my feelings on any supplement, and post the results of various experiments. As it was, for example, when I used or .

I took into account your wishes, now I will do similar experiments more often.

I bought GABA from Now Foods. One capsule contains 500 mg of GABA and 2 mg of VITAMIN B6 (which is required when taking this supplement, remember?).

Here we kill two birds with one stone. Drank GABA and forgot.

So, I started taking GABA 1.5 months ago.

I started taking 500mg per day. None side effects was not noticed.

Then, for the second week, I increased the dosage to 1000 mg per day.

And a week later, up to 2 grams per day.

Now I take GABA at a dosage of 3 grams per day. I'm not in a hurry to increase the dosage yet, in terms of economy.

What I felt from taking this supplement:

1. I lost about 5 kg of fat mass.
2. I added 1 kg of muscle mass.
3. Periodic insomnia is gone (I used to have trouble sleeping, especially after weekends before getting up early for work).
4. Became more comfortable with stress.

I measured fat loss and muscle gain using bioimpedance analysis of the body.

Did it for the first time (initially not to try the effect of GABA, just the analysis coincided with taking this supplement).

In general, I was very pleased with the effect that during the loss of fat (catabolism), I somehow added muscle mass. This, in theory, cannot be, but, as we said, GABA increases the level of growth hormone by 4-6 times. It could play such a role.

Although, maybe it's just a measurement error. Everything can be.

The insomnia was intermittent. I was afraid to use sleeping pills because of addiction, but GABA itself solved the problem. I am very happy about it.

It so happened that for a long time I worked as a site manager at my plant for the production of nuclear and petrochemical equipment.

The stress was incredible. Dozens of tasks had to be performed daily and constantly planned. Closing salaries, reports to directors, dismissals and constant debate with the working staff, all this was very exhausting.

GABA was a great stress reliever. For some, alcohol, friends, for some, healthy supplements and sports. Choice, in fact, everyone has their own.

I bought this supplement AT THE CHEAPEST PRICE by this link. You simply won't find cheaper. Well, the service is top notch.

In general, there are a number of very interesting studies about GABA that show many positive properties.

For example, I looked at a study that tested combining GABA with whey protein. This neurotransmitter significantly increased protein synthesis (i.e., the protein worked much BETTER).

All these things convinced me to use this supplement. Due to it, you can get a positive synergistic effect with other supplements.

conclusions

Let me summarize what I said today.

1. GABA is a mediator that improves sleep and relieves mental arousal.
2. GABA is able to raise the level of growth hormone by 400-600%!
3. A fat-burning and regenerating effect is possible (due to increased secretion of somatotropin).
4. It is necessary to take in increased dosages, starting from 500-1000 mg, increasing to 2-4 grams. per day. We accept AFTER WORKOUT for fat burning and weight gain. If for sleep, then before going to bed.

That's all for today, friends.

I hope this article was useful and interesting for you.

Gamma aminobutyric acid is a supplement that definitely deserves attention. Why miss the opportunity to become a little better?

P.S. Subscribe to my instagram. There I very often post various updates and my thoughts.

It happens that I simply don’t have time to write a weighty article on a blog, and I can post a photo with my thoughts in the description even when I’m in transport.

P.P.S. As you can see, I'm starting to publish articles about healthy supplements and fat burning. In March we are waiting for a very cool event! I'm preparing something special for you!

Gamma aminobutyric acid(abbreviated as GABA) is a biogenic substance contained in the brain that performs neurotransmitter and metabolic functions. His useful property invaluable for the human body, and especially for those involved in sports and heavy training. This inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system stimulates the energy processes of the brain, improves the quality respiratory function tissues, stimulates blood circulation, improves the process of glucose utilization.

Gaba performs and others important features. This amino acid relieves nervous tension, has a good tonic and calming effect, often acts as a tranquilizer, but without addiction. For medical purposes, and not for sports purposes, the biogenic substance is used in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, since it has a strong relaxing effect.

Among pharmaceutical products, the most popular drug is Amilon, the action of which is to stimulate the metabolic processes of the brain. This medicine is different high concentration GABA is quickly absorbed in the body, and then forms strong bonds with plasma, entering the bloodstream.

Falling apart pharmaceutical drug in the liver and kidneys. It is excreted from the body along with urine. The agent is non-toxic, it is not the only one containing a biogenic substance. Among the others medicines Picamilon, Gamibetal, and Gammalon are also in demand. They contain a slightly lower concentration of GABA, but are considered highly effective.

How to Take GABA Properly

The daily dosage ranges from 3.5 to 3.75 g. The recommended rate can be divided into two doses. It all depends on personal wishes. None strict restrictions for this substance is not. Since GABA is characterized by a rapid degree of absorption, it is possible to take the substance both before and after the end of the session. The main thing is that the reception falls on the time before the meal, and not after.

It has value due to the stimulation of the anterior pituitary gland, that is, the ability to activate the synthesis of growth hormone. They take GABA to achieve a good fat burning effect, and also because the substance has anabolic properties. These are not the only reasons for the amino acid's popularity in bodybuilding.

Substance intake has a multifaceted effect positive impact for an athlete:

• helps to improve concentration;
• improves the quality of sleep;
• has a direct impact on the formation of the relief of the body;
• has a calming effect, but stimulates muscle activity;
• does not have toxicity.

Side effects

Drugs containing GABA have practically no negative impact on the body, including as a result of taking an increased dosage. The most common side effects include anxiety, panic anxiety, sweating, nausea, rare case vomit.

Sometimes after taking an amino acid, unstable arterial pressure or an increase in body temperature. People who have chronic problems with sleep disturbance, as well as renal failure, taking the substance is contraindicated. In some, the active substance causes allergies. If an overdose occurs, the stomach is washed and rested.

GABA Performance Evaluation

Studies conducted since 2003 in various countries of the world have shown that the substance really brings results. It has been confirmed that due to gamma-aminobutyric acid in physical activity more growth hormone is produced.

And if the early experiments covered a wide audience, then since 2008, studies have been conducted exclusively with those involved in bodybuilding. They fully confirmed the previous results. Growth hormone is synthesized faster if GABA is taken. On average, the concentration increases by 6 times.

GABA Reviews

Almost everyone speaks positively about the biogenic substance. Negative comments are often due to a violation of the intake or the training process itself, since the growth hormone is produced more actively during classes.

Both European and American athletes unanimously give GABA an extremely positive assessment. This is the best evidence of the effectiveness of this amino acid.

Gross formula

C 4 H 9 NO 2

Pharmacological group of the substance Gamma-aminobutyric acid

Nosological classification (ICD-10)

CAS code

56-12-2

Characteristics of the substance Gamma-aminobutyric acid

White crystalline powder with slightly bitter taste and specific smell. Easily soluble in water, very little in alcohol; pH 5% aqueous solution 6,5-7,5.

Pharmacology

pharmachologic effect- nootropic, stimulating metabolism in the central nervous system.

It is the main mediator involved in the processes of central inhibition. It improves the blood supply to the brain, activates energy processes, increases the respiratory activity of tissues, improves the utilization of glucose and the removal of toxic metabolic products. Interacts with specific GABAergic receptors A and B types. It improves the dynamics of nervous processes in the brain, increases the productivity of thinking, improves memory, has a moderate psychostimulant, antihypoxic and anticonvulsant effect.

Promotes the restoration of speech and motor functions after a violation cerebral circulation. Renders moderate hypotensive action, reduces initially elevated blood pressure and the severity of symptoms caused by hypertension (dizziness, insomnia), slightly reduces heart rate. In patients diabetes reduces the level of glucose in the blood, with normal glycemia often causes hyperglycemia due to glycogenolysis.

Plasma concentration reaches a maximum after 60 minutes, then rapidly decreases; after 24 hours in the blood plasma is not determined. According to experimental data, it penetrates poorly through the BBB. Low toxicity.

Application of the substance Gamma-aminobutyric acid

cerebrovascular disease (atherosclerosis, hypertonic disease etc.), cerebrovascular insufficiency and dyscirculatory encephalopathy, impaired memory, attention, speech, dizziness, headache, consequences of stroke and traumatic brain injury, alcoholic encephalopathy, alcoholic polyneuritis, mental retardation in children, dementia, children's cerebral paralysis, endogenous depression with a predominance of asthenohypochondriacal phenomena and difficulty mental activity, a symptom complex of motion sickness (sea and air sickness).

Contraindications

hypersensitivity, childhood(up to 1 year), acute kidney failure, pregnancy (I trimester).

Gamma-aminobutyric acid began to be considered as a potentially important substance for the functioning of the brain 60s small years ago, and only about 28 years ago, scientists assigned it the status of a neurotransmitter.

We now know that approximately 40% of the nerve cells in the mammalian brain synthesize this particular acid.

She plays important role disorders such as depression, anxiety and stress. Studying the structure and functions of a substance helps to solve health problems.

What is GABA

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps transmit signals between the brain and the nervous system.

The main function is to control the level of glutamic acid (an excitatory neurotransmitter) and reduce the activity of nerve cells.

Suppressing nervous excitability, it naturally has a calming effect, suppresses feelings of anxiety and fear.

Sources of this acid

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is synthesized in brain cells from another, glutamic acid, in the presence of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase and active form vitamin B6. A lack of vitamin B6 leads to a decrease in GABA production, the accumulation of glutamate and nervous tension.

Besides, the immune system can attack and destroy glutamate decarboxylase. observed with such autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's disease, celiac disease, type 1 diabetes and other neurological disorders.

Since the substance in question is produced during the fermentation process under the influence of lactobacilli, it cannot be found in fresh produce. This makes fermented foods its only source. These products include:

• kimchi (traditional Korean dish from cabbage);
• kefir;
• sauerkraut;
• yogurt;
• miso;
• Puer tea;
• fermented rice and beans.

Functions of gamma-aminobutyric acid

Reducing anxiety and improving mood

One of the main tasks of GABA is to reduce the excitability of nerve cells, resulting in a decrease in the frequency of feelings of fear and anxiety.

There are clinical data that indicate a link between a deficiency in the body of gamma-aminobutyric acid and the occurrence of anxiety disorders.

It enhances the alpha rhythm of the brain, promoting relaxation, improving mood, and smoothing out the effects of stress.

Improves sleep quality

With insomnia, there is a reduced level of GABA. It is noteworthy that in a part of the brain called the thalamus, which is involved in the regulation of sleep, concentrated a large number of receptors for this acid. This is explained by the sedative effect that it has on the body. When the level normalizes, the rate of falling asleep increases, as well as the time deep phase sleep.

Prevention of depression

As with insomnia, depressed people are deficient in GABA. After successful treatment its level rises. Therefore, it is used as an alternative traditional drugs in the treatment of depression and related disorders.

Relieves symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (or PMS) is a collection of symptoms that occur before the onset of menstrual bleeding. Typical Symptoms: anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, fatigue, abnormal feeling of hunger. This is accompanied by a violation of the level of acid, which can help mitigate the manifestation of some symptoms.

Eases pain and reduces inflammation

GABA plays an important role in the transmission of pain impulses and the development inflammatory processes. Studies note that a reduced concentration of this substance is accompanied by such physiological disorders, like others pain syndromes. This substance suppresses the transmission of pain impulses and reduces the inflammation that accompanies pain. different origin. This improves the effectiveness of the treatment.

Symptoms and consequences of underproduction

When needed for normal functioning brain substances are in balance, a person feels energetic, motivated enough to perform tasks productively. Or, depending on the circumstances, calm and relaxed.

When the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid decreases, the brain is constantly in a tense state. As a result, the person is unable to relax.

The most common symptoms of GABA deficiency are:

• feeling of fear for no apparent reason;
• the person is constantly scattered and disorganized;
• a person does several things at the same time, but does not succeed due to low productivity;
• feeling anxious even when things are going well;
• inability to relax, the flow of thoughts does not allow to fall asleep;
• unexplained rapid heartbeat or uneven rhythm;
• addiction to high-carbohydrate foods, alcohol and substances that help achieve relaxation.

Low level acid is associated with a number of disorders: increased anxiety, depression, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. Its deficiency is not the cause, but is noted in autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and epilepsy.

How to normalize acid levels

B vitamins are vital important substances involved in the synthesis of many neurotransmitters, including GABA. Accordingly, with a deficiency of vitamin B6 (to a lesser extent - vitamin B12), a decrease in the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid is also observed.

To normalize production, products containing glutamine, glutamic acid and glutamate are useful (not to be confused with monosodium glutamate, food additive). These include bananas, beef liver and other organs, broccoli, citrus fruits, halibut fish, lentils, molasses, nuts.

A healthy lifestyle also helps restore amino acid balance as common culprits for low GABA levels are stress, lack of sleep, excess caffeine, malnutrition, gluten insensitivity.

Given the fact that full-scale studies of GABA began to be carried out not so long ago, many aspects of the effects on the brain and body remain unexplored. At present, it is safe to speak of positive influence gamma-aminobutyric acid for anxiety and related disorders, while research in other areas is still ongoing. For example, encouraging data is coming in to promote muscle gain and fat burning, which in the future may significantly expand the scope of GABA.

All more information appears about a neurotransmitter that has a complex but proud name gamma-aminobutyric acid - preparations with this substance are recommended as sedative. But how does this acid actually work, what effect do drugs with GABA have on the body?

GABA (GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that blocks impulses between nerve cells brain. Low GABA levels can manifest as:

• Deterioration of mood and the appearance of signs of an anxiety disorder;
• Epilepsy attacks;
• Chronic headaches.

As a result of the research, it was found that increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid can improve mood or have a calming, relaxing effect on the nervous system.

In addition, the neurotransmitter GABA, produced by the body, affects the regulation muscle tone and the production of hormones needed to build muscle cells. If you're looking for a muscle strength supplement, then you might be interested in GABA supplements. They are popular with weightlifters for their ability to burn fat and improve athletic performance.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid: when drugs don't work?

• Mood improvement
• Anxiety reduction
• Reducing symptoms of depression
• Sleep Quality Improvements
• Relief of PMS symptoms

Although the neurotransmitter GABA (produced by the body) has big influence on the work of the brain, taking it in the form of dietary supplements may not give results. Studies show that drugs with gamma-aminobutyric acid do not have the expected effect on brain function, so they should not be used for these purposes.

Let us consider in more detail why this happens and what is the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid with additional intake in the form of dietary supplements in fact.

How does it not work?

As a result of the studies, it was found that taking GABA drugs to reduce anxiety and depression is not effective. This is due to the blood-brain barrier, which is a system that separates circulating blood from brain tissue. In order for any of nutrients hit the brain cells, it has to cross the barrier. Only certain types of connections can do this.

If aminobutyric acid is taken in the form of drugs, then the active substances will be absorbed in the intestines and carried to the brain by the blood, but they will not be able to cross the blood-brain barrier.

In order for GABA to have an effect on the functioning of the brain, it must be synthesized by the brain cells themselves from precursors. That is, taking a drug with gamma-aminobutyric acid cannot increase the level of the neurotransmitter in the brain.

How to Increase Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Levels

Scientists have found a way to increase the level of GABA in the human body with the help of drugs. Dietary supplements are intended to reduce the level of anxiety and depressive manifestations, but do not contain gamma-aminobutyric acid in their composition.

Nootropics, precursors of GABA, have been found that supply human body components necessary for neurotransmitter synthesis. An excellent natural substance that stimulates the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid is L-theanine. This compound is widely known and found in large quantities in green tea.

Phenibut is also a precursor to GABA. He, like L-theanine, is able to overcome the blood-brain barrier. Active substances stimulate receptors in the brain to produce GABA.

Studies have shown that picamilon, containing GABA and niacin, is able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. After taking this drug, the activation of brain receptors increases.

Should I buy drugs with GABA as a sedative?

Despite the categorical conclusions of scientists that taking GABA does not affect the reduction of anxiety attacks and depression, many people continue to take these drugs. You can find a lot of reviews on the internet. real people who felt relaxed and reduced anxiety after taking drugs with gamma-aminobutyric acid.

This can be explained both by the placebo effect and the dosages and composition of the drugs taken. There is information that large doses preparations with gamma-aminobutyric acid are still able to slightly increase the level of GABA in the body.

Studies of the effect of aminobutyric acid on the human body are still ongoing. It is not fully understood how the dosage of the substance taken affects the brain. An insufficient number of experiments have been carried out to determine the specific conditions that affect the absorption of GABA by the body.

Everyone must decide for himself whether to buy preparations with gamma-aminobutyric acid as a sedative. If you are purchasing dietary supplements as prescribed by a doctor, then there should be no questions. If you are going (according to the old Russian tradition) to self-medicate, then you should carefully approach the choice of drugs.

When do GABA drugs work?

So why are GABA supplements that don't provide the expected nootropic effects so popular? The answer is simple - preparations with gamma-aminobutyric acid are considered strong natural fat burners.

The effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid in weight loss

GABA supports the production of hormones that help build muscle mass. In other words, the effect of taking drugs with gamma-aminobutyric acid is the acceleration of metabolism (additional muscle mass requires more calories). If you are just getting started with body building or are looking for weight loss supplements, then GABA is your choice.

Can you get GABA from foods?

It is impossible to obtain gamma-aminobutyric acid from food. However, various foods contain substances such as flavonoids that increase GABA levels in the brain. These are available and known to everyone:

• Fruits;
• Vegetables;
• Red wine.

Side effects from GABA

Side effects can manifest themselves in the following forms:

• excessive relaxation, in this state it is better not to drive.
• short-term change in heart rate and respiratory rate, they usually disappear quickly.
• Avoid co-administration of GABA preparations with alcohol and drugs. This can lead to serious problems.

GABA: a list of working drugs

When choosing drugs with GABA for a nootropic effect, be sure to study the composition. iHerb has a great supplement that contains both GABA and L-theanine. Those. by purchasing this dietary supplement, you are guaranteed to receive the expected nootropic effect- reduced anxiety, reduced symptoms of depression, improved mood.

You can buy gamma-aminobutyric acid with L-Theanine here:

• Now Foods, GABA, Chewable

And here is a drug with a rich composition (GABA, L-Theanine, valerian, a lot of trace elements and vitamins.):

• Now Foods, Nervous & Mood Support Vitamins, 90 Vegetarian Capsules.

The dietary supplement will also be effective in calming the nervous system.

For weight loss and body building, you can choose a drug containing only GABA, for example, dietary supplements at the link:

• Now Foods, GABA Powder, 6 oz (170 g)

A large selection of drugs with gamma-aminobutyric acid can be found on Eicherb by clicking on the link. There you can pick up dietary supplements with a suitable composition, both sedative and helping to lose weight.

How to take gamma-aminobutyric acid

The recommended GABA dosage range for weight loss is 2 to 4 grams per day. This amount can be taken all at once (less effectively) or in parts throughout the day. If GABA is used solely for fat burning, then best time for supplementation, 2 hours before bedtime. Do not take gamma-aminobutyric acid supplements with protein foods as this may affect digestion.

Do you know gamma-aminobutyric acid - which GABA preparations do you prefer?