Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a naturally occurring amino acid that is not composed of protein, is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system and is widely distributed in plants and animals.
Q: where is it from?
GABA can also be obtained through food intake. Some fermented foods, such as yogurt and sauerkraut, contain high levels of GABA. meanwhile, common foods such as potatoes, rice bran, whole grains, animal livers, and nuts also contain GABA, but at relatively low levels.
In addition to food sources, GABA can be produced by intestinal bacteria acting on intestinal contents. These gut bacteria convert certain components of food into GABA through fermentation, and then GABA is absorbed into the bloodstream. However, GABA in the bloodstream cannot normally cross the blood-brain barrier to enter the central nervous system; therefore, GABA produced by food and gut bacteria primarily affects the peripheral nervous system.
yogurt and nuts
How does gaba promote development in kids?
01. Promote growth and development: GABA can promote the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, which is an important hormone for human growth and development. Especially in the deep sleep state at night, the secretion of growth hormone reaches its peak, and GABA can improve the quality of sleep and prolong the duration of deep sleep, thus helping children to secrete growth hormone normally during sleep, and thus promote the development of height.
02. Relieve anxiety and improve mood: GABA, as an inhibitory transmitter of the central nervous system, can reduce neuronal activity and prevent over-excitation of nerve cells. It helps to relieve children’s anxiety, reduce stress, and regulate mood swings to keep children in a smoother emotional state.
03. Promotes sleep: GABA has a calming and sleeping effect, which reduces neuronal excitability in the brain, helping your child fall asleep and improving sleep quality. A good night’s sleep is vital to your child’s overall health and development.
04. GABA’s Promotion of Neurodevelopment
Currently, there are many studies showing that GABA has many protective effects on the human nervous system and peripheral tissues and organs, including neuroprotective effects, anti-hypertensive effects, anti-diabetic effects, anti-tumor effects, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, and intestinal protection, etc. GABA also has a protective effect on the degeneration of the nervous system caused by toxins and trauma.
study about gaba
Any side effects to watch out for?
- AGE FACTOR: The age of the child is an important factor in considering the use of GABA. Since children’s physiological and metabolic systems are not fully developed, they may react differently to medications than adults.
- Interaction with other medications: Drug interactions may occur when using GABA if your child is taking other medications, especially prescription medications. This may result in enhanced or diminished efficacy or even adverse reactions.
- Safety and Efficacy: GABA supplements may vary in quality and purity in the marketplace. To ensure safe and effective intake for your child, parents should choose certified products from reliable brands and follow the product directions and dosage recommended by your doctor.
- Lifestyle and Diet: GABA use should be part of your child’s overall health and lifestyle.
