10/17/2020
GABA The Natural Chill Pill(Part 3)
Researchers report that low levels of GABA in the brain can lead to a multitude of neurological and psychological disorders that include depression, insomnia, anxiety, chronic stress, headaches, muscle pain, difficulty concentrating, negative thought, feeling disorganized and excessive worry.
One of the most intriguing discoveries about GABA is that it can specifically diminish the unwanted thoughts that fuel stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders.
According to Julia Ross, MA, the author of "The Mood Cure" and a pioneer in the field of biochemical rebalancing:
“GABA acts like a sponge, soaking up excess adrenaline and other by-products of stress and leaving us relaxed.”
Anti-anxiety benzodiazepine drugs like Xanax and prescription sleeping pills like Ambien work by enhancing the naturally calming effects of GABA, binding to GABA receptors, or increasing GABA receptor sensitivity.
Scientists also report on the other properties of GABA that include its: "anti-hypertension, anti-diabetes, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anti-microbial, anti-allergy, hepato-protection, reno-protection, and intestinal protection. Therefore, GABA may be considered as potential alternative therapeutics for prevention and treatment of various diseases."("Molecules", May 2019).
Neurological researchers discovered that GABA improved memory and cognitive functions of the brain. In one study with menopausal women taking GABA, symptoms of depression and insomnia were improved by more than 65%.
While the body produces GABA naturally many individuals have less that adequate amounts. In one recent study, GABA levels in people with insomnia were almost 30% lower than those people without the sleep disorder.
GABA could work effectively as a natural relaxant and its effects could be seen within 1 hour of its administration to induce relaxation and diminish anxiety. Moreover, GABA administration could enhance immunity under stress conditions." ("Biofactors" 2006)
(This article by Richard Goldberg was originally published in the Oct. 16. 2020 issue of the "Press Banner")