Mike is the co-founder of Adapt and he holds a degree in neuroscience. When not looking at the latest research or speaking with customers, you'll find him experimenting with different ways to help people get that extra 10% out of life.

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Ever felt like your brain was stuck in overdrive? Racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, or feeling on edge could all point to an imbalance in your brain’s chemistry. At the heart of this equation is a little-known yet critical neurotransmitter: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Think of GABA as your brain’s natural brake pedal, calming the storm when stress or overexcitement takes over.

What Is GABA and Why Does It Matter?

GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. In simple terms, it reduces neural activity, helping you relax, focus, and even sleep better. When GABA levels are in balance, you feel grounded and resilient. Low levels? That’s when anxiety, insomnia, or even muscle tension can creep in.

In fact, studies suggest that people with anxiety disorders often have reduced GABA activity in their brains (Elias et al., 2020). This means less of that calming signal and more susceptibility to feeling frazzled by day-to-day stress.

What Impacts GABA Levels?

Several factors influence GABA levels, and unfortunately, modern life isn’t doing us any favors. Here’s what might be throwing yours out of whack:

• Chronic Stress: Your body prioritises survival, so it cranks up excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, often at GABA’s expense.

• Poor Diet: Low levels of magnesium, zinc, or vitamin B6—all critical for GABA production—can make a big difference.

• Lack of Sleep: Sleep is when your brain recalibrates. Skimp on rest, and GABA levels might take a hit.

• Alcohol or Stimulant Use: While alcohol temporarily boosts GABA, overuse leads to depletion. The same goes for caffeine overkill—hello, jittery mornings.

How to Naturally Support GABA Levels

You can take steps to support healthy GABA levels and reclaim your calm. Here are some proven strategies:

1. Functional Foods: Fermented foods like kimchi and yogurt naturally boost GABA, as do green tea and foods high in glutamate (GABA’s precursor), such as tomatoes and mushrooms.

2. Supplement Wisely: Studies show that supplements like magnesium and Passion Flower can enhance GABA activity. Ashwagandha, a key ingredient in Adapt’s Relax drink, also helps modulate stress and improve GABA signalling.

3. Movement for the Mind: Yoga and meditation aren’t just about Zen vibes; they’re linked to increased GABA levels in the brain, according to research from Boston University.

4. Breathwork: Simple practices like box breathing can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and enhance GABA’s calming effects. Try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 4, exhaling for 4, and holding again.

GABA and Modern-Day Stress

We’re living in a hyper-connected, high-pressure world that often feels like it’s moving too fast. When GABA levels are balanced, you can hit pause and adapt to whatever life throws at you. Without it, the smallest stressor can feel like a landslide.

At Adapt, we’re big believers in giving your brain the tools it needs to thrive. That’s why our Relax blend combines Reishi mushroom (a known GABA modulator) with adaptogens like Ashwagandha to help you unwind naturally—without the crash or dependency.

Key Takeaways

• GABA is essential for keeping your brain calm and collected.

• Chronic stress, poor sleep, and diet can impact GABA levels.

• Boost GABA naturally with a healthy diet, mindfulness practices, and adaptogens.

• Finding balance isn’t about shutting down; it’s about turning down the noise so you can adapt to modern life with clarity and ease.