The Effectiveness of GABA Weight-Lifting Supplement

Your body endures many physical and mental stresses when you exercise. To combat these, over half of exercising Americans have turned to various supplements, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One of these supplements is gamma aminobutyric acid, more commonly known as GABA. This amino acid is available in a variety of forms and has been touted to have a wide range of benefits from treating ADHD to increasing muscle growth.

  1. What is GABA?

    • As mentioned, GABA is technically an amino acid, but unlike other amino acids it is not used to build proteins. Instead, GABA acts as a neurotransmitter, which means it helps the brain communicate messages throughout your nervous system. Interestingly, GABA is an inhibitory transmitter, so it actually blocks other neurotransmitters. This action gives GABA a broad influence over your biological systems.

    The Claims

    • GABA has received credit for a number of health benefits, as noted, but it also is of particular interest to fitness enthusiasts. It has been found that GABA can positively influence the growth of lean muscle, while at the same time decreasing body fat by increasing levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH). GABA supplements are also said to encourage better, more restful sleep, giving you more energy for your workouts and making your muscles more ready for the task.

    Scientific Evidence

    • According to WebMD, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of GABA for any of its supposed effects.

      However, studies by other groups have strengthened the believe that GABA can increase HGH levels. One such study, published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, monitored the effects of 3 grams of GABA taken with a weight-training workout. The researchers found that the addition of GABA spiked HGH levels by as much as 400 percent immediately following exercise. The exact mechanism at work here isn't fully understood, however, and more research is needed. Long-term effects of GABA are also largely undocumented.

    Warnings

    • While there aren't any documented side effects of GABA supplementation, this isn't necessarily a green light to take it. This lack of known side effects may simply be because research is limited and none have been observed. For this reason caution is needed, especially for pregnant women or anyone taking prescription medication. Always consult your doctor before beginning a supplement routine.