About the Product
GABA 500 mg from HSN's EssentialSeries line is a food supplement in vegetable capsules based on 500 mg of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) per capsule, enriched with pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) and Vitamin B6 as complementary cofactors for neurotransmitter metabolism. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, present in 30 to 40% of brain neurons, and responsible for the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition that determines the state of calmness, relaxation, and sleep quality. With 1 capsule per day, preferably taken before bedtime, GABA 500 mg HSN supports natural relaxation, stress management, and sleep quality. Vegan, gluten-free, allergen-free, and GMO-free. Health claim awaiting European authorization from EFSA.
Benefits
GABA: the main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is synthesized in the brain from glutamate, in a process catalyzed by the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (which requires Vitamin B6 as a cofactor). It is released by GABAergic neurons and binds to GABA-A and GABA-B receptors in other neurons, producing a hyperpolarization of the neuronal membrane that decreases the probability of action potential firing, resulting in an inhibition of nerve transmission. This inhibitory effect is the mechanism responsible for the feeling of calmness, relaxation, and anxiety reduction that GABA provides. Low levels of GABA or its receptor function are associated with sleep disorders, anxiety, chronic stress, and some forms of epilepsy. Oral supplementation with GABA aims to increase the availability of this neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
Relaxation, stress and anxiety reduction: GABA supplementation has been associated in clinical studies with a state of increased relaxation and a reduction in the subjective perception of stress and anxiety. A study published in 2006 (Abdou et al.) documented relaxation effects and immune potentiation with oral administration of GABA in humans, with changes in brain wave patterns (increase in alpha waves, associated with an alert relaxed state) detected by electroencephalogram. The 500 mg dose per capsule from HSN corresponds to the reference dose documented as effective in relaxation studies with oral GABA administration.
Support for sleep quality and falling asleep: GABA plays a fundamental role in sleep regulation, being the inhibitory neurotransmitter primarily responsible for the transition from wakefulness to sleep and for maintaining deep sleep (NREM). Supplementation with GABA before bedtime aims to facilitate this neurological transition, reducing excessive brain activity that is the main cause of difficulty falling asleep and maintaining sleep. HSN positions GABA 500 mg as part of its sleep support protocol, often combined with Melatonin, Valerian, and Magnesium Bisglycinate for a synergistic effect.
Support for GH (growth hormone) secretion during sleep: GABA has a documented relationship with human growth hormone (HGH) secretion, especially in the immediate post-workout period and during deep sleep. HGH is secreted in pulses during slow-wave NREM sleep, which is precisely the phase of sleep most dependent on GABAergic activity. Studies document that GABA supplementation can increase plasma GH levels at rest and immediately after exercise, contributing to muscle development, tissue repair, and fat metabolism, making it especially relevant for athletes who aim to optimize recovery during sleep.
Pantothenic Acid (B5) for energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and fatigue reduction: Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), as recognized by EFSA, demonstrably contributes to normal energy metabolism, to the normal synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, Vitamin D, and some neurotransmitters, to normal intellectual performance, and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. The inclusion of B5 in the HSN GABA 500 mg formula is particularly relevant because acetylcholine synthesis (another neurotransmitter with a role in cognitive function and sleep) requires acetyl-CoA, a metabolite whose metabolism depends on pantothenic acid as a cofactor.
Vitamin B6 for normal nervous system function and GABA metabolism: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), as recognized by EFSA, demonstrably contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and to normal energy metabolism. More specifically, Vitamin B6 is the essential cofactor of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), which catalyzes the conversion of glutamate to GABA within neurons. Without sufficient B6, endogenous GABA synthesis is compromised, even with adequate glutamate availability. The inclusion of Vitamin B6 in the formula directly complements the activity of supplemented GABA, simultaneously supporting the endogenous synthesis of the neurotransmitter.
Vegan, gluten-free, allergen-free, GMO-free: HSN GABA 500 mg is formulated with a vegetable HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) capsule, without animal gelatin, and with a complete absence of declared food allergens, making it suitable for the widest possible spectrum of diets and dietary restrictions.
Uses
Before bedtime: Take 1 capsule 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime with water. For sleep quality and falling asleep support, this is the most documented and recommended timing.
After training: For athletes who want to take advantage of GABA's effect on GH secretion, take 1 capsule immediately after intense training, ideally in combination with a fast-absorbing protein source to maximize the anabolic signal.
HSN complete sleep protocol: Combine GABA 500 mg with Magnesium Bisglycinate (2 capsules), Melatonin and/or Valerian (1 capsule) before bedtime for comprehensive support for relaxation and sleep quality, as recommended by HSN's "Combat Insomnia" pack.
