Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Aminobutyric acid, most commonly discussed in the context of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), is a non-protein amino acid that functions as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system. GABA plays a key role in reducing neuronal excitability, and it is well established that disturbances in GABAergic signaling are associated with anxiety and related disorders. Due to this, many anti-anxiety medications (such as benzodiazepines) target GABA receptors to exert their effects.

However, the evidence supporting the use of orally administered GABA supplements (or unspecified aminobutyric acid) for anxiety is limited and inconsistent. The primary issue is that GABA, when ingested, has poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which raises doubts about its effectiveness in influencing central nervous system activity and anxiety levels. Some small clinical studies and animal research have suggested mild anxiolytic effects, but these studies are often low in quality, have small sample sizes, or use proprietary formulations that may contain additional active ingredients.

Overall, while there is a strong scientific rationale linking endogenous GABA activity to anxiety, the use of aminobutyric acid (unspecified) as an oral supplement for treating or supporting anxiety is not robustly validated by high-quality clinical evidence. The evidence supporting its use can be considered weak to modest (rated 2/5).

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