It would soothe negative ruminations…
GABA for “γ-aminobutyric acid” is a new trendy natural remedy for relaxation. “GABA is known to soothe negative ruminations, make it easier to fall asleep, and calm irritability and muscle spasms. If you’re restless and constantly fidgety, tense or angry, you could potentially be deficient in GABA.” explains naturopath Sophie Pihan. GABA is a neurotransmitter, that is to say a chemical compound released by neurons which acts on other cells or neurons in the body. It slows down nervous impulses and provides a calming effect in cases of nervousness, anxiety, depression or sleep disorders.
“It is typically a reflection of our society, in which we lead stressful lives. This submission to a state of perpetual stress generates chemical imbalances between the calming elements and the elements allowing us to take action in our body, including neurotransmittersdescribes Sophie Pihan, naturopath. In case of stress, our GABA reserve is called upon to compensate for the effects of stress on the body. So we can run out of it more easily.” To fill a potential lack of GABA, there are natural solutions. “One of the precursors of GABA is glutamine. It is therefore preferable to favor certain foods and plants rich in glutamine.” We focus on a varied diet rich in glutamine with:
- Whole grains (whole and semi-whole rice, whole-wheat pasta, whole-wheat bread, etc.);
- Mushrooms of all kinds;
- Seafood: oysters, shrimp;
- Legumes;
- Oilseeds, particularly nuts;
- Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach.
“Two other foods directly provide GABA, chestnuts and potatoes. However, they should be consumed in moderation, since they have a high glycemic index.” Plants also facilitate the conversion into GABA and can be consumed in the form of food supplements in capsules (it is better to turn to the liposomal form better assimilated by the intestines), mother tincture or herbal teas. Among the plants to drink every day, for example:
► lemon balm, which also balances the digestive system
► passionflower and valerian, especially in cases of sleep disorders;
► astragalus, which promotes the direct production of GABA;
► rhodiola, which is an interesting adaptogenic plant in long-term treatment.
Please note, GABA is contraindicated in the case of anxiolytic or antidepressant treatments. This is also the case for rhodiola. A blood test is useless since the presence of GABA in the blood is not representative. Sophie Pihan reminds us to take care of our microbiota, because a healthy and optimal digestive system goes hand in hand with good mental health, especially if we know that many neurotransmitters, as well as their precursors, are produced with the help of the intestinal flora…
Thanks to Sophie Pihan, naturopath and member of FÉNA.