Can you get GABA naturally from foods?
ANSWER
GABA is a brain chemical that some researchers think may be linked to improved mood or relaxation. You can get GABA supplements, but you can’t get it from foods. But a variety of foods contain substances such as flavonoids that influence how GABA works in the brain. These foods include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Teas
- Red wine
Reviewed by Melinda Ratini on September 5, 2019
SOURCES:
Virginia Commonwealth University: "The Role of GABA in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Anxiety and Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders."
Linus Pauling Institute: "Neurotransmitter Synthesis."
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: "GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)."
Shimada M. Clinical and Experimental Hypertension. June 2009.
Krantis A. Acta Neuropathologica, 1984.
Enna, S. GABA, Volume 54 (Advances in Pharmacology), Academic Press, 2006.
Amen, D. Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, Three Rivers Press, 1999.
SOURCES:
Virginia Commonwealth University: "The Role of GABA in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Anxiety and Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders."
Linus Pauling Institute: "Neurotransmitter Synthesis."
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: "GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)."
Shimada M. Clinical and Experimental Hypertension. June 2009.
Krantis A. Acta Neuropathologica, 1984.
Enna, S. GABA, Volume 54 (Advances in Pharmacology), Academic Press, 2006.
Amen, D. Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, Three Rivers Press, 1999.
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