Editing GABA

'''GABA''' (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid) is a naturally occurring [[amino acid]] that works as a [[neurotransmitter]] in your brain. Neurotransmitters function as chemical messengers. GABA is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter because it blocks, or inhibits, certain brain signals and decreases activity in your [[nervous system]].

== Function ==

When GABA attaches to a protein in your brain known as a GABA receptor, it produces a calming effect. This can help with feelings of [[anxiety]], [[stress]], and [[fear]]. It may also help to prevent [[seizures]].

== GABA and Health ==

Certain medications used to treat conditions like [[epilepsy]], [[anxiety]], and [[mood disorders]] work by increasing the action of GABA in the brain. These include drugs like [[benzodiazepines]], [[barbiturates]], and certain [[antidepressants]].

== GABA Supplements ==

GABA supplements are often used to help reduce [[stress]] and [[anxiety]]. However, there is limited scientific research to support these uses. Some research suggests that GABA produced in fermented foods may increase sleep time and decrease the time it takes to fall asleep. More research is needed to fully understand these effects.

== See Also ==

* [[Neurotransmitter]]
* [[Amino Acid]]
* [[Nervous System]]
* [[Anxiety]]
* [[Stress]]
* [[Fear]]
* [[Seizures]]
* [[Epilepsy]]
* [[Mood Disorders]]
* [[Benzodiazepines]]
* [[Barbiturates]]
* [[Antidepressants]]

[[Category:Neurotransmitters]]
[[Category:Amino Acids]]
[[Category:Nervous System]]
[[Category:Anxiety]]
[[Category:Stress]]
[[Category:Fear]]
[[Category:Seizures]]
[[Category:Epilepsy]]
[[Category:Mood Disorders]]
[[Category:Benzodiazepines]]
[[Category:Barbiturates]]
[[Category:Antidepressants]]

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<gallery>
File:Gamma-Aminobuttersäure_-_gamma-aminobutyric_acid.svg|Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Structure
File:Release,_Reuptake,_and_Metabolism_Cycle_of_GABA.png|Release, Reuptake, and Metabolism Cycle of GABA
File:Autoradiography_of_a_brain_slice_from_an_embryonal_rat_-_PMID19190758_PLoS_0004371.png|Autoradiography of a Brain Slice from an Embryonal Rat
File:Gabaergic_Neurons.png|Gabaergic Neurons
</gallery>