GABA or Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
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GABA stands for Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, an amino acid classified as a neurotransmitter. Our loved one's neurologist calls it "a powerful neurotransmitter." We call it our "miracle capsule" since it has been very beneficial in reducing his meltdowns or tantrums and relieving anxiety.
Neurotransmitters are substances that are deposited at the end of nerve cells which are then picked up by other nerve cells in order to send nerve impulses throughout the brain and nervous system.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid may effect the body in the following ways:
Has a tranquilizing effect
Calms the body in much the same way as prescription tranquilizers such as Valium
Stimulates the secretion of Human Growth Hormone
Improves peaceful sleep
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid is known as an inhibitory amino acid because it fills brain receptor sites so that other messages cannot be transmitted. For example, Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid works with Niacinamide and Inositol, which are B-Vitamins, to stop anxiety messages from reaching the motor centers of the brain.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid is necessary for brain metabolism and has reportedly been used to treat conditions like epilepsy and high blood pressure. GABA may also be effective in treating Attention Deficit Disorder and is supposedly used in patients with an autism spectrum disorder and others who have anxiety problems.
After a three-month trial on Zoloft to reduce fear and anxiety, our loved one was taken off this drug since no more benefit was observed than in taking a GABA supplement. This supplement was then prescribed for him by his physician so that he could take this supplement at school, as needed for anxiety and meltdowns. Our loved one will ask for it during times of stress.
We give our family member this supplement on an empty stomach whenever we can.
Source: Kirkman Labs
Resources on GABA & Other Supplements
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other helpful ways, such as GABA
we've used to help our loved one become calm, focus, and attend better.
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