Evidence supporting the use of: GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
For the health condition: Worry

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Synopsis

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

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a key inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is believed to play a role in reducing neuronal excitability, which can influence mood and anxiety. The rationale for using GABA supplements to support or treat worry (anxiety) is based on the understanding that increased GABAergic activity can have calming, anxiolytic effects. Several prescription medications for anxiety, such as benzodiazepines, work by enhancing GABA's effect in the brain.

However, the evidence supporting the efficacy of oral GABA supplements for treating worry or anxiety is limited. Most research suggests that GABA taken orally has poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which would limit its direct effect on brain function. Some small clinical studies and animal research have reported modest anxiolytic effects of GABA supplementation, but these studies are often limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and methodological weaknesses. A few human studies using EEG measurements or subjective anxiety scales have found slight reductions in stress or anxiety after GABA supplementation, but these effects are generally mild and not consistently replicated.

In summary, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence for the use of GABA in alleviating worry, the overall scientific validation is weak (evidence rating: 2/5). Stronger, larger, and better-designed clinical trials are needed to determine if oral GABA supplementation is truly effective for anxiety or worry.

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