GABA is the abbreviation for gamma-aminobutyric acid, a compound produced by the body that is known above all as a messenger substance in the central nervous system. It is one of the most important inhibitory neurotransmitters in the human brain. While some messenger substances increase the activity of nerve cells, GABA is involved in processes that limit the transmission of certain nerve signals. This interplay of different messenger substances is an important basis for the complex processing of information in the nervous system.
A special feature of GABA is that it is formed from the amino acid glutamate. With the help of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase, the body can convert glutamate into GABA. This process requires the active form of vitamin B6 as a coenzyme. Interestingly, glutamate performs mainly stimulating tasks in the nervous system, while GABA acts mainly as an inhibitor. The two substances are thus closely linked and yet perform different functions.
In the brain, GABA acts via special GABA receptors. These include GABA-A and GABA-B receptors, which are involved in different ways in the regulation of neural signals. Via these receptor systems, the body's own GABA influences the excitability of nerve cells. The blood-brain barrier regulates the exchange between the bloodstream and the brain. The extent to which orally ingested GABA can cross this barrier in humans is the subject of scientific studies.
GABA occurs not only in the human body but also in various fermented foods and plants. For example, certain lactic acid bacteria can form GABA during fermentation. Some types of tea also contain gamma-aminobutyric acid. Fairvital GABA Powder consists of 100 % pure gamma-aminobutyric acid and contains no other additives. Thanks to the powder form, it can be portioned individually and stirred into liquids.