• Increase Growth Hormone
• Enhance Recovery
• Promote Restful Sleep
• Reduce Body Fat
• Increase Lean Muscle Mass

GABA, Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, is an amino acid classified as a neurotransmitter (A neurotransmitter is a substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse. A synapse is a region where nerve impulses are transmitted across axon terminals.) GABA’s high concentration in the hypothalamus suggests this amino acid plays a significant role in hypothalamic-pituitary function. The hypothalamus is a region of the posterior section of the brain and is the regulating center for visceral (instinctive) functions such as sleep cycles, body temperature, and the activity of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is the master endocrine gland effecting all hormonal functions of the body. One primary hormone of concern to the athlete is growth hormone (GH) and its various hormonal constituents. The amino acid GABA has been shown in numerous studies to promote significant increases in plasma growth hormone levels. 

There have been literally hundreds of clinical studies on GABA and numerous studies on GABA’s ability to elevate growth hormone levels. As with most nutritional studies, GABA research has come directly from the medical community. One noted study from the First Medical Clinic at the University of Milan in Milan, Italy titled, “Effect of acute and repeated administration of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) on growth hormone and prolactin secretion in man”, shows just how effective GABA is. Quoted results from this study showed “In all of the 19 subjects studied, compared with 18 controls, plasma growth hormone levels were significantly increased (above 5 ng/ml) by acute oral administration of 5 g of GABA.” This study showed over a 5 1/2 fold increase in plasma growth hormone levels 90 minutes after GABA administration. That is a significant increase unmatched by any other nutritional means. 

Most cited studies on amino acids and growth hormone elevation utilize intravenous delivery means. This is unrealistic and doesn’t reflect real world results. Studies on GABA have been performed with both oral and intravenous administration with the oral route showing remarkable effectiveness. GABA’s growth hormone elevating effects rival that of potent pharmaceutical compounds.

What's In AST Sports Science GABA?