GABA
Also known as: Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
Your brain's main calming chemical — the brake pedal that slows everything down when the engine is running too hot.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid — the brain's main calming chemical. It works like a brake pedal, slowing down neural activity to prevent the brain from becoming overexcited. When GABA levels are low, the brain struggles to calm itself — contributing to anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and sensory overwhelm. Many anti-anxiety medications work by boosting GABA.
How it works
GABA slows neural activity, preventing your brain from getting overexcited. When GABA is low, your brain can feel like it's running without brakes — leading to anxiety, insomnia, and sensory sensitivity. Many anti-anxiety medications work by boosting GABA's effects.
Think of it like
It's like the brake pedal in a car — without it, the engine keeps revving even when you need to slow down or stop.
What it feels like
When your GABA system is working well, you feel calm and grounded. When it's not, you feel wired, restless, and unable to switch off.