Evidence supporting the use of: GABA
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and plays a key physiological role in modulating neuronal excitability and anxiety. Many prescription anxiolytics, such as benzodiazepines, work by enhancing GABAergic activity. Because of this, GABA supplements and ingredients intended to boost GABA levels are marketed for anxiety relief. However, scientific evidence supporting the use of oral GABA supplements for anxiety disorders in humans is limited and mixed. Most studies suggest that GABA taken orally has poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which raises doubts about its direct effectiveness. A small number of clinical trials and pilot studies (e.g., randomized controlled trials with GABA or fermented foods containing GABA) have reported minor reductions in self-reported stress or anxiety, but methodological limitations (small sample sizes, short duration, lack of replication) prevent firm conclusions. Reviews, including a 2020 systematic review in Frontiers in Neuroscience, highlight the lack of robust clinical evidence and call for larger, well-designed trials. In summary, there is a plausible biological rationale for targeting GABAergic systems in anxiety disorders, but direct supplementation with GABA itself is not strongly supported by clinical research at this time. The evidence base is weak (rated 2/5), and further research is needed to establish efficacy and safety.

More about GABA
More about Anxiety Disorders

Other health conditions supported by GABA

Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Hypertension
Insomnia
Stress

Products containing GABA

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.