What does gamma aminobutyric acid contain? Gamma-aminobutyric acid and its functions. Method of use of gamma-aminobutyric acid and dose

Reading time: 11 minutes. Published 05/14/2019

GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter that prevents brain hyperactivity and relaxes it. It relieves stress and anxiety, relaxes muscles, improves sleep and improves mood.

Where to buy GABA

You can buy GABA in the iHerb online store.

Mechanism of action of GABA

Billions of neurons in the brain transmit messages across synapses every day. And these messages are transmitted by neurotransmitters (neurotransmitters).

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that carry messages from one nerve cell to another through nerve synapses. Once a neurotransmitter binds to a recipient cell, it triggers chemical reactions that either inhibit or stimulate the electrical signal traveling through the neuron. Movement, thoughts, emotions, feelings, breathing, heartbeat - all depend on neurotransmitters that bind to receptors.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid that is produced in the brain from glutamate and vitamin B6. It acts as a calming neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. The essence of its work is to prevent excessive glutamate activity. Gamma-aminobutyric acid relaxes a person, reduces signs of nervousness and acts as a sleep aid.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid has an antagonist - glutamate. It is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Glutamate is essential for normal brain function, attention and coordination. But too much of it causes excessive excitability. This leads to agitation and anxiety, and at extreme levels, brain damage and epilepsy.

GABA receptors

Receptors act as intermediaries and a kind of filters in the transmission of messages between neurons and neurotransmitters.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid has three types of receptors: GABA-a, GABA-b, GABA-c. [ , ]

The most common are GABA-a and GABA-b receptors. We will talk about their action.

Neuroprotector. Gamma-aminobutyric acid stabilizes and protects brain cells. Prevents calcium overgrowth, which leads to brain cell death. Low activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid contributes to the development of diseases such as Parkinson's disease. GABA is also essential for proper brain and nerve development. Although gamma-aminobutyric acid is a “brake” in adults, in early childhood it is a “stimulant”—and acts more like a “gas” that accelerates brain development. GABA is essential for the creation of new brain cells (neurogenesis), for their development, and for the creation of brain connections and circuits in early life.

Increases emotional intelligence. People with low GABA are more prone to emotional imbalances, while people with high levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid may be more empathic and sensitive to other people's feelings.

Improves sleep

GABA plays an important role in ensuring a good night's rest. According to research, gamma-aminobutyric acid deficiency is one of the main causes of insomnia. And to understand how gamma-aminobutyric acid affects sleep, you must first understand what sleep consists of.

Sleep consists of 5 successive stages:

1. Falling asleep:
   • The eyes move more slowly and the muscles relax. If during the first stage you saw a dream, then it is easier to remember it and make a so-called “lucid dream”.
   • Most people cannot remember the last few minutes before falling asleep. This form of amnesia causes people to forget phone calls or conversations they have in the middle of the night.
   • Many people experience sudden muscle contractions called hypnotic myoclonus, which are often preceded by the sensation of falling.
2. Brain wave activity decreases. Eye movements stop. Body temperature, heart rate and breathing slow down.
3. Deeper and slower brain waves appear. Here a person moves from light sleep to deep sleep.
4. This is the stage of deep sleep, also known as delta sleep. This is a very important stage, since here a person gets enough sleep and regains strength. Hormones are produced, such as growth hormone, which are necessary for the growth and development of the entire body, including muscles. If you wake up in deep sleep, you will feel drowsy and disoriented for the first few minutes after waking up.
5. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. Rapid eye movement stage. At this stage, a person dreams.

The 3rd and 4th stages are considered the most important. At this time, the body reduces the level of cortisol (stress hormone), reduces inflammation and strengthens the immune system.

And gamma-aminobutyric acid is the key neurotransmitter that “triggers” each stage. A deficiency of this neurotransmitter makes it difficult to fall asleep and increases the likelihood that you will constantly toss and turn and wake up during the night. Additionally, low GABA levels may prevent you from achieving stages 3, 4, and 5 sleep.

Prevents depression and reduces anxiety

One theory is that depression is caused by a deficiency of gamma-aminobutyric acid. In some studies, people with depression had lower levels of this amino acid in both the brain and blood. Low levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid reduce resistance to stress and can trigger depression. GABA activity also helps the brain create new brain cells—called neurogenesis, which is associated with improving mood and overcoming depression. Some antidepressants work by increasing brain GABA and neurogenesis.

Reduces addiction

Drugs enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid and cause feelings of pleasure, then dependence, and then withdrawal. Paradoxically, increasing GABA activity in other ways allows you to overcome withdrawal symptoms and overcome addiction. Although the mechanism of action is almost identical for some and for others.

The simplest and most popular fighters against alcoholism and drug addiction are baclofen, picamilon and phenibut. Both activate GABA-b receptors, the same ones responsible for cognitive and social-behavioral effects. Both help overcome alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms by allowing the addict to wait it out and help restore damaged neurotransmission. Thus helping the person recover. [ , ]

Reduces pain

In some ways, pain is simply too much activity in the brain. Pain occurs when signals from brain cells and nerves do not switch off properly in pain pathways. Excessive nerve activity often underlies chronic nerve pain after injury.

After injury, glutamate can become the dominant substance and suppress GABA. Glutamate then increases the amount of inflammatory substances and free radicals. Activates other surrounding cells that are also inflamed. Pain occurs and this process continues chronically because nothing can stop it.

GABA and similar drugs stop chronic nerve pain by relaxing the nerves and blocking excessive signaling. But there's one problem: the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid activity required to reduce severe pain may also cause too many sedative reactions (dizziness, nausea, euphoria). [ , , ]

Increases libido

GABA has complex effects on hormones and libido. In women, estrogen suppresses gamma-aminobutyric acid, and progesterone and its metabolites increase it. GABA activity may also enhance the effects of endorphins, which increase feelings of pleasure. GABA may increase libido or sexual function, mainly as a secondary effect in people experiencing anxiety or low mood. [ , ]

Increases physical performance

Research has shown that gamma-aminobutyric acid can improve exercise performance in several ways:

• It increases the production of growth hormone. This hormone improves muscle adaptation to resistance training and can increase muscle mass. [ , ]
• It improves sleep quality and helps you recover faster after strength training.
• GABA relaxes muscles and reduces muscle spasms. [ , ]

Promotes healthy aging

A balance of gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate promotes healthy aging. Aging causes declines in balance, fine motor skills, and coordination. GABA activity supports optimal brain function and motor performance in older adults. GABA supports brain plasticity, allowing the brain to continue learning and adapting. Increased GABA in older adults may help maintain plasticity.

Signs of GABA Deficiency

A deficiency of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain can cause many health problems. Here are some of the symptoms that people with GABA deficiency may experience:

• General and social anxiety.
• Panic attacks.
• Inability to calm down and relax.
• Weak stress resistance.
• Insomnia.
• Bad mood or depression.
• Inability to feel other people's emotions.
• Attention problems or ADHD.
• Cognitive problems.
• Chronic pain and inflammation.
• Headache.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to accurately measure gamma-aminobutyric acid levels in the body. This is because GABA is concentrated in certain areas of the brain, inside cells.

The best way to assess whether you may have low levels of GABA in the brain is based on your symptoms and overall health. If there is a possibility that you have a gamma-aminobutyric acid deficiency, try ways to naturally increase GABA in the brain (meditation, yoga and exercise).

Note: Many of the above symptoms are often not caused by low GABA alone. Sometimes they can be the result of imbalances in other neurotransmitters, hormones and nutrients.

GABA and alcohol

Most people would probably agree that after a drink or two we will feel more relaxed in social situations. This is partly due to the fact that alcohol has a direct effect on gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors. The ion channels remain open longer, resulting in an increased inhibitory effect of GABA.

At the same time, alcohol inhibits the glutamate system and increases the release of both serotonin and dopamine. This stimulates certain reward centers, which explains the pleasant effects and well-being. Alcohol's effect on GABA also explains its depressant effects - and why excessive drinking eventually leads to severe sedation and loss of consciousness.

However, chronic alcohol abuse reduces the sensitivity of GABA receptors. This is because the brain adapts to try to maintain balance. People eventually have to drink more and more to experience the pleasurable effects of alcohol, and this is how alcohol addiction develops. This also explains alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as agitation and even tremors and seizures.

Many people become dependent on alcohol to try to counteract neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain. In cases of severe deficiencies, their brains seem to reduce them to it to counteract depression, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts.

GABA in tablet form

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is quickly absorbed into the blood. In terms of the effectiveness of using GABA supplements to obtain higher levels of this amino acid, research has shown that the molecules are too large to cross the barrier between the blood and the brain and therefore cannot affect the brain.

Despite this, there are many claims from users online that taking gamma-aminobutyric acid helps them relax, manage stress, fall asleep easier, and reduce anxiety.

It is theorized that this may be due to a potential connection between neural networks in the gastrointestinal system and GABA interacting with their receptors. This can have a positive effect on our mental state without the need for contact with the brain.

There are drugs that were specially created on the basis of GABA with the ability to overcome the blood-brain barrier (the barrier between the blood and the brain). The most popular: and. In phenibut, the finyl ring helps GABA cross this barrier, and in picamilon it helps niacin (niacin, vitamin B3).

Side effects of GABA

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is considered a generally safe and well-tolerated supplement when taken in recommended doses. It has no known drug interactions.

If dosing recommendations were followed, side effects were minor. However, possible side effects have been reported and are usually associated with high doses. These include increased heart rate and breathing, and tingling in the extremities.

If you experience these side effects when using GABA at recommended doses, they may disappear soon after you start using it.

This supplement may cause drowsiness, so it is not recommended to take it before driving or operating machinery.

What happens when our brain malfunctions? The consequences are impossible to predict. They can be very unhappy: from various physical illnesses to problems with personal identification.

Often, when signs of problems with the nervous system appear or for the treatment of more severe diseases, experts prescribe medications with GABA. It has another name - GABA. Let's figure out what it is and why it is so important?

Indications for the use of gaba acid

An amino acid is a chemical biologically active element that is directly involved in the metabolic processes of the brain. It is essentially an inhibitory neurotransmitter.

This means that gamma-aminobutyric acid acts as a link between gray matter and all elements of the body. GABA is synthesized from glutamic acid using the enzyme (glutamate decarboxylase).

The effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid are expressed as follows:

1. energy processes awaken;
2. it promotes better blood circulation;
3. glucose is broken down;
4. toxins come out;
5. blood pressure is normalized;
6. prevention of muscle cramps;
7. tissues become saturated with oxygen;
8. stabilization of nervous processes occurs;
9. has a calming effect on the central nervous system.

GABA deficiency can be supplemented by taking special supplements. For example, you can take a closer look at the product from Natural Factors - Pharma GABA Stress-Relax (60 chewable tablets per package). But before starting the course, you must definitely go for a consultation with your doctor!

Remember! Too much gaba acid in the body can cause shortness of breath and cramps in the limbs and cause restlessness. So, when does a person really need this drug?

Most often, gaba aminobutyric acid is used in combination with other medications that can relieve symptoms of the following diseases:

• epilepsy;
• stroke;
• arterial hypertension;
• atherosclerosis;
• cerebral palsy;
• endogenous;
• cerebrovascular insufficiency.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid food supplement is used for many other purposes:

1. For the recovery of patients after traumatic brain injuries;
2. Gamma-aminobutyric acid helps reduce the manifestations of alcoholic encephalopathy;
3. It is a valuable assistant in the fight against symptoms of motion sickness;
4. Helps with constant headaches and unexpected dizziness;
5. The effectiveness of GABA is also evident when combating difficulties concentrating;
6. Helps improve the memory mechanism;
7. Prescribed by doctors for all kinds of disorders of the speech apparatus;
8. It is recommended to use acid for children who are developmentally delayed and for children with severe dementia;
9. In addition, it has a relaxing effect and is simply irreplaceable for those who suffer from insomnia;
10. Gamon also helps in solving problems of sexual function, because... promotes relaxation of the whole body.

Will Gaba help you lose weight?

GABA supplements play an important role in the process of weight loss. This is facilitated by the acid’s ability to accelerate muscle gain. Many who want to get rid of extra pounds start right away with physical activity. But first of all, it is necessary to remove the fat layer.

The muscles begin to grow, and the fat disappears due to this. In addition, those who have trouble sleeping often suffer from obesity. Lack of sleep leads to weight gain. Metabolism slows down, the whole body is in a stressful state. All this leads to a feeling of hunger.

Of course, you won't lose weight instantly with an active gamma-aminobutyric acid supplement. But in any case, you will get a good night's sleep and get rid of excessive appetite.

How to prevent a deficiency of nutrients?

People who are deficient in GABA are unable to work productively during the day or sleep at night. This is because an overly excited brain cannot recover. For this reason, there is a feeling of regular anxiety, depression, and unreasonable aggression.

It becomes difficult to function normally during the day according to your schedule. The person cannot cope with the tasks necessary to complete them and only becomes more frustrated. And when preparing for bed, insomnia begins, thoughts swirl in your head and prevent you from falling asleep.

How can this outcome be prevented? There are several options to replenish your gambler level:

1. Add acid-rich foods to your menu;
2. Relaxing physical activities (for example, yoga, etc.);
3. Taking active food supplements.

When preparing the menu, add kiwi, oranges, and bananas. Eat oatmeal and whole grain baked goods. You can eat more offal. Lentils, broccoli, and spinach will also be useful. From time to time it is worth eating different foods. As drinks, you should use natural herbal infusions and green tea. It will be good to add lemon balm to them.

But not in every case it is possible to get the desired result only with the right diet. And not everyone can find time to play sports. In addition, physical exercises must be performed correctly, preferably under the guidance of a professional trainer. And these are extra costs.

Then dietary supplements containing gamma-aminobutyric acid come to the rescue. Today it is not difficult to buy dietary supplements with home delivery. There are many drugs from different manufacturers.

You will find a large selection of products with GABA on the popular website of the iHerb online store from the USA. There you have the opportunity to choose the option that suits you from the widest range. For example, GABA (500 mg, 200 capsules) from Now Foods.

Where is it profitable to buy GABA?

You can purchase GABA supplements at a pharmacy or order them on the iHerb website.

To make your search easier, check out the list of trade names:

• Nicotinoyl gamma;
• Aminalon;
• GABA or GABA;
• Gammalon;
• Ganevrin;
• Myelomad;
• Gaballon;
• Apogamma;
• Gammaneuron;
• Encephalon;
• Gammar.

This is not the entire list. There are many nootropics with this component on the market.

Let us indicate a number of analogues of gamma-aminobutyric acid:

1. Aminalon. Produced in tablet form. Prescribed to help the central nervous system to eliminate symptoms of hyperarousal. Patients tolerate it well. Aminalon can only be purchased with a prescription;
2. Nicotinoyl gamma. The white powder, consisting of crystals, does not smell of anything. It is instantly absorbed and has almost no toxic effect. If there are problems with blood circulation in the brain, experts recommend taking nicotinoyl gamma as the main medicine to combat this disease;
3. Gammalon. Also available in tablets. It has nootropic pharmacological properties. Normalizes the development and functioning of nervous processes. Consultation with a doctor is required for admission.

The iHerb official website has a huge selection of active food additives. You can easily choose the right product for yourself, both in terms of cost and included ingredients. A nice bonus is the possibility of delivery. Couriers will deliver the products directly to your home.

Let's get to know some of them:

1. dietary supplement from Now Foods GABA. Tablets 100 pcs. in a jar. The cost varies from site to site and is approximately $7.00. Helps relieve nervous system overstrain;
2. GabaSolgar (L-theanine) – The product is made on a plant basis. 1 Solgar capsule contains 500 milligrams of the active ingredient. The jar contains 100 pills. About $24 per can without discounts. Promotes relaxation and calm. Also useful for maintaining good physical shape.
3. Dymatize NutritionGABA. This gamma-aminobutyric acid is unflavored and comes in powder form. Mixes well, can be used on its own or added to cocktails and other drinks. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the recommended dose in grams! Serving Size: 1 scoop (2 g). Per can: 56 servings.

It is quite difficult to decide which drug to choose. It would be better to consult with a specialist and take the necessary tests before your appointment. Only an integrated approach will make it possible to achieve the required therapeutic effect.

Instructions for using GABA

Should be taken before meals. First of all, read the instruction insert from the manufacturer. There is information about dosages and possible side effects.

The body can react in its own way. Nausea and vomiting may occur. In some cases, gastrointestinal tract disorders occur. Blood pressure surges or fever may occur. But all these effects gradually disappear.

Contraindications for use:

1. individual intolerance;
2. acute renal failure;
3. the first three months of pregnancy.

You can give it to children only after 1 year and always after visiting a doctor!

One more thing to remember. GABA receptors react sensitively to alcohol. It is strictly prohibited to consume active supplements and alcoholic beverages! Since the effect of alcohol on the body is similar to the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid, their combined use leads to a strong inhibitory reaction. A state of depression and indifference to the world around you may arise. The person becomes depressed, inhibitory reactions appear, and there is a ringing in the ears.

The study of GABA and its use over the years allows doctors to draw some conclusions. Good reviews from medical specialists leave no doubt that today many people need additional intake of gamma-aminobutyric acid.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid(eng. Gamma Aminobutyric Acid) is an amino acid that functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system of humans and mammals. Neurotransmitters in the broadest sense of the word are chemical substances that transmit electrical impulses from nerve cell to neuron. For medical purposes GABA(or GABA) is used for various mental disorders (including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases), and also as a sedative and relaxant.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Formula

GABA is an amino acid, an organic substance with a branched chemical formula. is synthesized in the body from the glutamic amino acid (part of proteins in the body and is not essential) with the assistance of a special enzyme - glutamate decarboxylase.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): receptors

Acts in the structures of the central nervous system via GABA receptors. Essentially, receptors are cells that perform the function of transmitting electrical impulses; they can either activate the transmission process or slow it down. In case of GABA, receptors accept the amino acid, which, in turn, inhibits processes inside nerve cells. Receptors are located GABA in brain structures.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): properties

Properties gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) acids have been studied very well:

1. Mediator - this amino acid is responsible for the speed of impulse transmission between nerve cells and neurons: GABA participates in braking processes.
2. Sedative and mild hypnotics - GABA relieves irritation and calms.
3. Metabolic - amino acid improves metabolic processes in the brain, improves its oxygen supply. Along with GABA, cerebral circulation can be improved by taking, or.
4. GABA removes metabolic products from the body.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Applications

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): at the pharmacy

You can buy it at the pharmacy, the choice of drugs is small, and in general the quality leaves much to be desired. Why take the risk when you can purchase an absolutely safe product at a good price, and the choice of drugs in the online store is varied.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): tablets

Pharmaceutical companies offer a wide selection of drugs containing. Very often, buyers choose the tablet form (such tablets can be bought at the pharmacy). The concentration of the substance in such drugs is small - 250 mg, but it is convenient; the doctor can prescribe any dosage. The tablets enter the body and begin to act no earlier than an hour later, so they are best taken before bed. If you want to speed up the effect of penetration of the active substance, then it is better to purchase the drug with capsules; there are most of them on the website, and they are quite relatively cheap.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): instructions

Optimal dose gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) per day – 750-1500 mg, this amount of substance is contained in 2-3 capsules or tablets. In any case, in the instructions for a specific drug (the dosage may vary from one manufacturer to another) there are recommendations for taking GABA registered.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): how to take

You need to take it daily, depending on the dosage of the chosen drug (100, 250, 500, 750), the dose can be divided into several times or taken 1 capsule once a day. For example, if the drug contains a dosage of 500 mg, then you can take a capsule three times a day, if it is 750 mg, then you can take a capsule twice a day. Prerequisite: the drug should be taken with water or juice, and preferably on an empty stomach or before bedtime.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): contraindications

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) can be taken only after prior consultation with a doctor, since there are a number of contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity and individual intolerance;
• Acute renal failure
• Children's age up to one year.
• 1st trimester of pregnancy.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): buy, price

Here is such a large assortment of forms, dosages and manufacturers gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA):

1. Buy gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at a low price and guaranteed high quality in the famous American online organic store.
2. How to place an order step by step: !
3. We recommend using the iHerb promo code for your first order.

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It is impossible to separate the issue of increasing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid, calc. GABA) from the task of limiting glutamic acid, since both of these substances are in a complex and interconnected interaction. Each is an important neurotransmitter that has a profound impact on our physical and mental health. GABA is a drug that reduces the excitation of brain cells, while glutamic acid, on the contrary, stimulates their activity. As is the case with all neurotransmitters, too much or too little of any of them leads to problems.

When substances are in mutual balance, the entire system works normally. However, there are many factors that can easily upset the delicate balance and lead to a situation where the level of GABA is insufficient and glutamic acid is too high, which is extremely bad for your health.

What is glutamic acid?

Glutamic acid ( NOT to be confused with glutamine!) - This is one of the main neurotransmitters that convey arousal. (Note: Glutamic acid is also called glutamate).

As a result of the action of glutamic acid, you can speak, think, process information already received and perceive new information, maintain attention and remember information that interests you. Scientific research suggests that the more receptors you have, the smarter you are. Unfortunately, the abundance of glutamic acid receptors also has a downside: with their increase, the risk of epileptic seizures and stroke also increases.

Although glutamic acid is a neurotransmitter found in large quantities in the brain, it exists in very low concentrations. If its concentration increases, then the neurons become overexcited and their work ceases to be normal. Thus, when overstimulated, glutamic acid becomes a toxin.

Excessive levels of glutamic acid are a major contributor to a number of neurological disorders such as autism, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, migraines, restless leg syndrome, Tourette's syndrome, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease and epilepsy. Its excess also increases the likelihood of stroke and causes insomnia, enuresis, hyperactivity, anxiety and stereotypies in children with autism. (is a repetitive behavior aimed at self-stimulation, which manifests itself in the form of rocking, walking from side to side, spinning in place, flapping arms, spinning or lining up toys, echolalia, repeating the same words).

Too much glutamic acid may cause an increase in the number eosinophils, which leads to inflammation that damages blood vessels and causes migraines and blood pressure surges, as well as harming the hypothalamus and Purinier cells, important for speech and language understanding.

Mercury in the blood becomes toxic in the presence of high levels of glutamic acid. There is also a possibility that its excess contributes to the accelerated proliferation of cancer cells.

But that's not all: elevated glutamic acid levels cause the brain to produce natural opioids (endorphins and enkephalins) to protect itself from possible harm. This causes difficulty with orientation and attention, and depletes both your own opioid stores and levels of opioids that are important for detoxification, inflammation control, and gut health.

Glutathione protects brain cells; its lack leads to cells dying faster and in larger quantities. Glutamic acid also leads to the survival of pathogens in the intestines, and can cause excess acidity and heartburn.

When there is too much glutamic acid, it can cause acetylcholine levels to rise, and too much glutamic acid also has a stimulating effect - thus exacerbating the problem even further.

What is GABA?

GABA is an acronym for gamma-aminobutyric acid, an essential inhibitory neurotransmitter. Its role is to calm and relax the brain. GABA is also very important for speech and language understanding. It is GABA that prevents your speech from turning into a continuous machine-gun burst. The brain uses it to facilitate sensory integration. Without adequate production of GABA, the sounds of our speech would collide with each other, forming a mess, and we would have difficulty understanding the words addressed to us.

Your gastrointestinal tract has many GABA receptors, and this substance is important for intestinal contractions. Insufficient levels lead to abdominal pain, constipation and stool disorders. GABA also maintains adequate levels of immunoglobulin A (antibodies that protect the intestinal mucosa, as well as other mucous membranes, from the invasion of pathogenic bacteria). This is very important for the health of the immune system.

A lack of GABA leads to nervousness, anxiety, panic attacks, aggressive behavior, avoidance of eye contact, attention problems, trouble focusing the eyes, chronic pain syndromes and other ailments. It can also lead to GERD.

Low levels of GABA make people more prone to alcoholism and drug addiction because these substances artificially increase GABA levels temporarily. However, alcohol and similar drugs deplete neurotransmitters, only making the problem worse.

GABA is present in almost every area of ​​the brain, but the hypothalamus contains a particularly large number of its receptors, making it important for many vital functions. Among them are the regulation of sleep, body temperature, appetite, thirst, sexual desire and the functioning of the pituitary gland and the autonomic nervous system. The primary role of the hypothalamus is to maintain homeostasis throughout the body, which is impossible without sufficient GABA.

Like all neurotransmitters, GABA and glutamic acid play an important role in regulating the autonomic nervous system and maintaining balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. A lack of GABA leads to disorders of the autonomic nervous system such as insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome and panic attacks.

Balance of GABA and glutamic acid

When GABA levels are low, there is too much glutamic acid and vice versa. Thus, in order to increase the level of GABA, it is necessary, among other things, to solve the issue of getting rid of excess glutamic acid.

Read also How to potty train a child with ASD

It is important to know that glutamic acid is a substance that is necessary for the synthesis of GABA, and, under normal conditions, any excess glutamic acid is automatically converted by the body into GABA. However, sometimes your body cannot perform this transformation properly (there are a number of reasons for this, which we will discuss below).

To convert one substance into another, an enzyme called glutamate decarboxylase is needed. It has been suggested that problems with glutamate decarboxylase may underlie problems with sufficient GABA levels.

The rubella virus, which is part of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, can reduce the activity of glutamate decarboxylase by half. This may be one of the reasons why children with autism show some of the autistic symptoms immediately after vaccination because, as we said, GABA is important for speech and brain function.

Other viral infections and bacteria also interfere with the action of glutamate decarboxylase. Streptococci multiply especially well in conditions of excess glutamic acid, which results in many children with autism having persistent streptococcal infections.

Methylation also affects the balance of GABA and glutamic acid. If this process fails, then folic acid salts are not excreted, but are converted into glutamic acid. Additionally, if methylation does not occur properly, the body may not have the strength to suppress pathogenic bacteria and viruses, which means they will be present and interfere with glutamate decarboxylase.

The methylation process can cause problems due to micronutrient deficiencies in food, toxins, genetic mutations, or candida overgrowth. Methylation is highly dependent on the Krebs cycle (tricarboxylic acid cycle) and vice versa, so problems with the Krebs cycle will lead to problems with methylation, which in turn will cause an imbalance of GABA and glutamic acid.

In addition, the synthesis of GABA also has a connection with the Krebs cycle, so the tricarboxylic acid cycle has both direct and indirect effects on the lack of GABA. The Krebs cycle can also be disrupted by candida overgrowth, B vitamin deficiencies, or the presence of heavy metals and toxins.

Glutamate decarboxylase is produced by the pancreas, so problems with it can lead to a lack of the enzyme. It is known that in the body of people with diabetes of the first group, antibodies to glutamate decarboxylase are produced. Its production is also influenced by the abundance of lead and a substance derived from glycine (food additive E640). In addition, low levels of vitamin B6 lead to disturbances in the production of glutamate decarboxylase.

To further complicate the picture, glutamic acid binds to six other receptors in the brain. One of them is the NMDA receptor, which helps calcium enter cells and plays a large role in memory function and the ability to build chains of synapses. If there is excess calcium in the body, this will also affect the imbalance of GABA and glutamic acid.

Calcium levels can be regulated by taking magnesium and zinc. However, high doses of zinc (more than forty milligrams per day) can also cause excess glutamic acid. Magnesium can bind and activate GABA receptors. If there is a lack of calcium in the body, it should be taken orally along with magnesium (both metals must be in the form of citric acid salts).

The amino acid taurine increases the production of glutamate decarboxylase and, following it, GABA. In addition, taurine can be bound by GABA receptors, since, similar to GABA, it has an inhibitory function. Taurine is especially abundant in seafood and animal protein.

Thus, taurine may help restore the imbalanced GABA and glutamic acid balance. However, some people have genetic mutations that can cause negative effects from taurine supplements by increasing sulfur levels in the body.

In addition, candida fungi produce a toxin known as beta-alanine, which causes taurine to be excreted by the kidneys in the urine. In some cases, not only taurine itself is excreted, but also its compound with magnesium, which causes excess calcium, which leads to excess glutamic acid.

Another essential neurotransmitter, serotonin, is also required for GABA to properly play its role. If you have a serotonin deficiency, even sufficient amounts of GABA will not be able to perform its role properly.

A diet that lacks enough nutrients—including fats and animal proteins needed to make neurotransmitters—can lead to the imbalances already mentioned. Too many people consume too little fat in their diet. In addition, foods such as sugar, whole grain cereals, starchy foods, chocolate, caffeine, artificial sweeteners and flavors, food additives and colorings can lead to GABA deficiency and should be eliminated from the diet. A ketogenic diet (that is, a diet high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in carbohydrates) can help build GABA in the body. In addition, there are also supporters of the paleo diet - a diet based on the nutritional set of primitive people.

The drug is available with a doctor's prescription.

Included in the list of medicines dispensed by prescription when providing additional free medical care to certain categories of citizens entitled to receive state social assistance.

TRADE NAMES

Gamma-aminobutyric acid, Aminalon, Aminalon film-coated tablets 0.25.

DRUG FORM

Film-coated tablets.

HOW DOES THE DRUG WORK?

The drug belongs to the group of nootropic drugs. Gamma-aminobutyric acid is a natural component of the cells of the human central nervous system. It affects specific receptors, which activates energy processes, improves blood circulation, and facilitates the flow of glucose into brain cells. The drug provides increased productivity of mental work, improved memory, accelerated recovery of speech and movements after cerebrovascular accident (psychostimulating effect), and reduced manifestations of sea or air sickness.

In addition, gamma-aminobutyric acid lowers blood pressure and pulse rate, and increases the body's resistance to stress.

IN WHAT CASES IS A MEDICINE PRESCRIBED?

For chronic disorders of cerebral circulation due to atherosclerosis, hypertension, accompanied by impaired memory, thinking, speech, attention, as well as dizziness and headache.
For the treatment of conditions after acute cerebrovascular accident (stroke), traumatic brain injury.
For pathologies of the brain (alcoholic encephalopathy) and peripheral nerves (polyneuropathy) due to alcoholism.
For the treatment of children with mental development disorders (birth trauma, cerebral palsy, intrauterine development disorders).
For sea and air sickness.
For some forms of depression accompanied by difficulties in mental activity.

APPLICATION OF THE DRUG

ADMISSION RULES
The drug is taken orally, before meals.

The daily dose for adults is 3-3.75 g, for children aged 1-3 years - 1-2 g / day, 4-6 years - 2-3 g / day, over 7 years - 3 g / day. The daily dose should be divided into 3 doses. For the prevention and treatment of sea and air sickness, adults are prescribed 0.5 g 3 times a day, children - 0.25 g 3 times a day.

DURATION OF ADMISSION
The effect of the drug develops slowly, so the course of use is long (from 2 weeks to 4 months), depending on the nature and severity of the disease, as prescribed by the doctor. Repeated courses of treatment are advisable.

When treating sea and air sickness, adults and children need to take the drug for 3-4 days; for prevention, you should start taking the drug 3 days before the trip.

IF A DOSE IS MISSED
If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the dose and take the medication as usual. You should not take a double dose of the drug.

OVERDOSE
The drug has low toxicity, however, with a single daily dose, the risk of side effects increases.

EFFECTIVE AND SAFE TREATMENT

CONTRAINDICATIONS
Individual intolerance, children's age (up to 1 year), acute renal failure, pregnancy (1st trimester).

SIDE EFFECTS
Allergic reactions (skin rashes, Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock), nausea, vomiting, insomnia, changes in blood pressure (especially in the first days of use), increased body temperature, diarrhea or constipation.

YOU MUST TELL YOUR DOCTOR
You suffer from diabetes and epilepsy.
You are taking any other drugs, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and dietary supplements.
You have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine.

If you are pregnant
Do not take during pregnancy (in the first trimester).

If you are breastfeeding
The drug is contraindicated.

If you suffer from other diseases
In diabetes mellitus, taking the drug reduces the amount of blood glucose. In case of epilepsy, it is necessary to ensure that there are no contraindications to the joint administration of gamma-aminobutyric acid and antiepileptic drugs.

If you drive a car or work with machinery
The drug reduces the rate of reactions.

If you are over 60 years old
You should make sure that all medications you take are compatible with gamma-aminobutyric acid.

If you are giving the drug to children
The drug is contraindicated for children under one year of age. For children aged 1-3 years - 1-2 g/day, 4-6 years - 2-3 g/day, over 7 years - 3 g/day.

INTERACTIONS
Use with other medications
Gamma-aminobutyric acid enhances the effect of benzodiazepines, some hypnotics and antiepileptic drugs.

Alcohol
In high doses, it may contribute to side effects.

STORAGE RULES
Should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C, in a dry place out of reach of children.