Not much is known about the effectiveness of GABA supplements. In fact, experts don`t know how much GABA actually reaches the brain when consumed as a supplement or food. But some research Trusted Source suggests that it`s only small amounts.
Here`s a look at some of the research behind GABA`s more
1.Stress and fatigue
A 2011 study in Japan examined the effects of a beverage containing either 25 mg or 50 mg of GABA on 30 participants. Both beverages were linked to reduced measures of mental and physical fatigue while doing a problem-solving task. But the beverage containing 50 mg appeared to be slightly more effective.
Another study from 2009 found that eating chocolate containing 28 mg of GABA reduced stress in participants performing a problem-solving task. In another study, taking capsules containing 100 mg of GABA reduced measures of stress in people completing an experimental mental task.
The results of all of these studies sound promising. But most of these studies were very small and many are out of date. Larger, more long-term studies are needed to fully understand the benefits of GABA supplements popular uses.
2.Insomnia
In a small 2018 study, participants who took 300 milligrams Trusted Source of GABA an hour before going to bed fell asleep faster than those taking a placebo. They also reported improved sleep quality four weeks after starting treatment.
Like many other studies looking at the effects of GABA supplements in humans, this study was very small, with only 40 participants.
3.Anxiety
According to a 2006 article, two very small studies found that participants who took a GABA supplement had increased feelings of relaxation during a stressful event than those who took a placebo or L-theanine, another popular supplement.
The article also notes that the relaxing effects were felt within an hour of taking the supplement.
