What is GABA deficiency?

First, what is GABA?

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It's a naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a chemical messenger between nerve cells. While GABA is produced in the brain, it can also be found in some foods and in supplemental form (like GABA-Mag).

How does GABA work?

In the human body, GABA's main function is to reduce neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. In other words, GABA calms down nerve cells and prevents them from becoming too active or excited. Think of it as a natural "dimmer switch" for your nervous system - it helps keep your brain and nerves from becoming overstimulated.

GABA is critical for mood regulation, anxiety reduction, calmness, relaxation, and focused attention. 

When GABA binds to its receptors on nerve cells, it decreases the likelihood that these cells will fire, essentially acting as a brake on neural activity. This inhibitory action is crucial for maintaining balance in brain function and helps regulate various physiological and psychological processes. GABA plays a vital role in mood regulation, sleep, muscle relaxation, and anxiety reduction. It also helps control fear and stress responses, promotes calmness, and aids in the production of alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and focused attention.

What causes GABA depletion?

Several lifestyle factors can caused depleted GABA levels. Chronic stress is a primary contributor, along with poor sleep habits and disrupted sleep patterns. Diets high in processed foods and sugar, or low in key nutrients like vitamin B6, magnesium, and zinc, can cause depleted GABA levels. Excessive caffeine consumption lowers GABA levels by blocking GABA receptors. Sedentary lifestyles lacking regular exercise can reduce GABA production. Regular alcohol use, despite initially boosting GABA activity, can lead to decreased GABA function over time. Environmental toxins and even excessive screen time can also interfere with natural GABA production. Unfortunately, these are all extremely common, particularly in the United States.

What are symptoms of low GABA levels?

GABA deficiency often manifests in physical and mental symptoms. Mental symptoms often include anxiety, racing thoughts, and difficulty concentrating. People with low GABA levels frequently report feeling overwhelmed, having persistent worrying thoughts, and experiencing panic attacks. They may also struggle with insomnia or have trouble maintaining regular sleep patterns.

Low GABA levels can cause anxiety, racing thoughts, panic attacks, jitteriness, and even increased sensitivity to physical pain.

Physical symptoms can include muscle tension, headaches, and general feelings of restlessness or jitteriness. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues due to the connection between GABA and the gut-brain axis. Additionally, people with GABA deficiency might be more sensitive to pain and physical discomfort, as GABA helps regulate pain perception. These symptoms often create a cycle where anxiety and physical tension reinforce each other, potentially leading to chronic stress and its associated health problems.