GABA Helps ADHD - Heres How:

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) has demonstrated an amazing potential for treating ADHD. This is mainly a calming agent that helps to relax the brain, which is essential for ADHD.

Children and adults with ADHD tend to get impulsive and they overreact. Lack of attention and forgetfulness are the prime characteristics of ADHD.

GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps to send messages in the nervous system. It calms the nerves, and slows down the nervous system.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is formed with the aid of a biochemical reaction between glutamic acid and the vitamin pyridoxal, along with decarboxylase or GAD. It is basically an amino acid produced in brain and largely known as a natural tranquilizer.

Benzodiazepine drugs make GABA more accessible in the brain by enhancing its receptor binding abilities that leads to reduced anxiety and relaxation.

GABA supplements cannot cross the blood-brain blockade or influence the CNS (central nervous system). They can benefit the peripheral nervous system and are beneficial in treating hypertension.

GABA has been nicknamed as anxiety amino acid because it utilizes vitamin B and Vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 combines with benzodiazepine receptors, which helps in handling stress. Lack of vitamin B3 or can impact the proper functioning of brain.

Does It Work:

GABA is helpful in relieving ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) symptoms in children and adults. This is one of the most common behavioral disorders in America that has affected millions of children in the country.

Though the actual causes of ADHD are still not known, people believe that it is hereditary. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can be characterized by the following symptoms:

• Inattention
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Distractibility
• Impulsivity
• Hyperactivity

These disorders are mainly triggered due to stress and they cannot be alleviated until the stressor is removed or the affected person is out of the taxing situation.

The major neurotransmitters are mainly composed of amino acids and proteins. Lack or deficiency of protein can hinder the proper formation of neurotransmitters. This leads to weariness, laziness, lack of concentration, and sleeplessness.

Studies Supporting Use of GABA:

A study conducted in Japan at the Kyorin University Medical School indicates the potential use of GABA for ADHD. In this study, a natural form of GABA (PharmaGABA) was made using Lactobacillus hilgardii. Nearly 60 students were given either 100 mg of placebo or the GABA supplement, and then administered with a math test. It was found that the GABA group gave 20 percent more correct answers than the placebo group, thus suggesting that GABA improves mental performance.

While no studies have directly established a relationship between GABA and ADHD, Dr. Michael Murray suggests that these findings point towards the potential use of GABA for ADHD by enhancing mental focus and brain health.

GABA vs. Other ADHD Treatments:

Unlike medicines that are basically anti-depressants or stimulants; amino acids help in restoring the balance and keeping the mind and body calm.  GABA is now used as an effective replacement for ADHD drugs, as it is natural and safe to use.

You may also consider using ADHD supplements, such as Listol, that contain GABA - to alleviate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children.