Choosing the right GABA supplement for anxiety and sleep can make a significant difference in how you feel — this guide breaks down exactly what works, what doesn't, and what Dr. Ava Bell-Taylor recommends.

Learn How GABA Supplements Can Improve Sleep, Anxiety And Mood

Feeling anxious or having difficulty sleeping? GABA supplements can help. GABA functions to eliminate excess energy from neurons throughout the body, particularly in the brain and central nervous system. This process has multiple effects on the mind and body, such as relaxation, pain relief, mood improvements, optimal sleep, and even improved anxiety. 

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain’s major ‘calming’ neurotransmitter, is crucial for producing happiness and relaxation. Low GABA levels may stem from stress, physical activity, sickness, injuries, unbalanced blood sugar levels, and even gluten sensitivity. People who suffer from low GABA levels are likely to self-soothe with food, alcohol, and drugs. Taurine and glycine supplementation, on the other hand, work to increase GABA more effectively and in a healthier manner.

How Glycine Improves Sleep Quality

As a GABA supplement, glycine is used to enhance sleeping patterns. It is an amino acid the body uses to produce proteins, which are vital in growing and maintaining tissue, hormones, and enzymes. Although it is found in protein foods and dietary supplements, the body can naturally synthesize glycine from other amino acids.

Glycine is also a neurotransmitter which produces calming effects in the body. It can also assist in falling and staying asleep by reducing core body temperature. Studies involving people with sleep problems have found that ingesting 3 grams of glycine before bed helps patients fall asleep faster, sleep better, feel less sleepy during the day, and think better. 

Consequently, glycine may be a useful substitute for some prescription sleeping pills as it helps improve overall sleep quality at night, as well as feeling rested and less fatigued during the day.

How Taurine Relieves Anxiety & Promotes Calmness

Taurine behaves in a surprising way and functions similarly to GABA in the brain. Structurally, taurine is similar to GABA and attaches to GABA receptors. Research shows that these brain receptors are “extraordinarily active” when taurine is present. In addition, taurine aids in the release and formation of GABA. 

There is a lot of literature on the action of taurine, as its structure suggests that it is of great significance for the brain. Obtaining sufficient levels of taurine is not very simple, but it can be achieved through amino-penetrable acid drugs. For those who suffer from anxiety with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as sleep issues, taurine supplementation can aid in calming hyperactive and distractible brains. Insomniacs and anxious patients can benefit from glycine and taurine. Do speak to your natural healthcare practitioner about the positive effects of these amino acids.

Top 9 Benefits and Uses of Glycine

Benefits of Taurine: More Than a Performance Booster

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products and claims are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.