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GABA

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Introduction

What Research Shows

Safety Notes

Introduction

GABA is a compound in the brain that is used to send messages between the brain and body. It can be taken as a supplement. It has been used to ease anxiety, stress, and problems sleeping. GABA has also been used to lower blood pressure. It can be taken as a pill or powder.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for GABA.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

Hypertension—may lower high-normal blood pressure and borderline hypertension A1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take GABA in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

References►

A. Hypertension

A1. Shimada M, Hasegawa T, et al. Anti-hypertensive effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-rich Chlorella on high-normal blood pressure and borderline hypertension in placebo-controlled double blind study. Clin Exp Hypertens. 2009 Jun;31(4):342-354.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC
Last Updated: 5/6/2020

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