Is GABA really effective for sleep? A medical doctor explains in detail! | What are its effects? | Foods containing GABA

GABA is a natural amino acid widely found in plants, animals, and the human body, and is an abbreviation for γ-Aminobutyric Acid.

It primarily acts as an "inhibitory neurotransmitter" in the brain and spinal cord, playing a role in calming excitement and promoting relaxation.

In other words, its key function is its "anti-stress effect," which helps to calm the mind.

◆ Parasympathetic dominance and improved sleep quality

The main functions of GABA include the following:

• Lowers blood pressure

• Activates brain cell metabolism

• Enhances relaxation effects.

GABA intake makes it easier for alpha waves, which are brain waves associated with relaxation, to appear.

It suppresses the excitation of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to a dominant parasympathetic nervous system.

This puts the mind and body in a relaxed state before sleep.

GABA improves sleep quality (depth of sleep), allowing for a refreshing awakening.  

What foods contain GABA?

GABA is found in various foods we eat every day.

Tomatoes, eggplants, cucumbers, asparagus, mandarins, melons, and other vegetables and fruits, as well as fermented foods like miso, pickles, and kimchi, are typical examples, with sprouted brown rice being particularly rich in GABA.

Lactic acid bacteria that efficiently produce GABA have been discovered, leading to the development and sale of GABA-added foods such as chocolate, coffee, candies, and gummies.

History of GABA research and its relaxing effects

Looking back at history, GABA was first extracted from the mammalian brain in 1950, and

in the 80s, the effect of GABA-rich tea on high blood pressure was reported.

Subsequent research has shown that GABA improves sleep quality,

and makes waking up more refreshing.

Collaboration of Music, Sleep Environment, and GABA

Many factors contribute to healthy sleep.

Environmental factors include temperature, humidity, lighting, bedding, and more.

One's physical condition, lifestyle habits, and refraining from alcohol and smoking are also important.  

Furthermore, music that gently guides you into the world of sleep, like "sound medicine," is recommended.

A project that combines these factors can be considered the latest news.

This includes GABA-infused chocolate.

Please take a look at the article below.

Seven companies dedicated to improving sleep quality gathered at the call of Ezaki Glico, which sells "Mental Balance Chocolate GABA" - "The Ultimate Sleep Room" is now available at HAMACHO HOTEL　※September 1, 2022