What Does Gaba Do In Pre-workout?

Medically reviewed by Dr Dimitar Marinov
What Does Gaba do in Pre-workout?

You may have seen the addition of Gaba (short for Gamma-aminobutyric acid) in supplements before, but what exactly does this ingredient do in pre-workout?

Read along as we take you through what Gaba is and what benefits and potential side effects you can expect from it.

What Is Gaba?

Known for producing a calming effect, Gamma-aminobutyric acid works as a neurotransmitter. It reduces or inhibits a nerve cell’s ability to receive or send signals to other cells. It’s often used as a medical treatment for people who struggle with sleep disorders or anxiety.

Gaba is also known to improve recovery for athletes, help with sleep, improve the natural production of growth hormones and provide support for lean muscle development. Making it a suitable edition for supplements. 

What Are The Benefits Of Gaba In Pre-workout Supplements?

Gaba has a good reputation for its benefits. Here are a few of them:

Improve Sleep Quality:

Improve Sleep Quality

GABA is often taken by people who have issues with sleep. Whether it is overstimulation, insomnia, or you’ve just had a bad day, GABA’s ability to calm you down helps for a good night’s sleep.

Increase Growth Hormone Level:

Research has shown that men who took 3 grams of  GABA in their pre-workout before their weight lifting session had a 400% increase of GH in their system and 200% after. This increase in GH has significant benefits for people looking to increase muscle size and strength.

Speed-Up Recovery:

A quick recovery for any athlete is important. Because GABA increases GH levels, it also aids in helping your body recover faster, allowing you to hit the gym sooner and keep momentum.

Support Lean Muscle Development:

Support Lean Muscle Development

Gaba supplements are also said to help improve, sustain and develop the building of lean muscle growth. This factor is also thanks to the increased GH levels produced by Gaba.

May Reduce Stress: Like its ability to help you sleep, GABA also reduces the effects of stress on a person. Because it stops nerve cells from sending data through the central nervous system and receiving info, the nerves that are firing on all cylinders when you’re stressed are unable to sync, which leads to you feeling a bit calmer.

What Is The Recommended Dosage Of Gaba?

Gaba dosage recommendations are generally 3 grams per day with no more than 750 milligrams per serving. Manufacturers suggest different dosages for their products. Consult a medical professional for more info on GABA dosages.

How Should You Take Gaba?

Gaba can be taken in pill form or powder form and mixed into foods or a protein shake. Research shows that the combination of Gaba with whey protein has a significantly better result in performance than by itself.

When Should You Take Gaba?

For better sleep, around 300 ml of Gaba should be taken just before bed for several weeks to get the best results. In a pre-workout, GABA should be taken 15-30 minutes before your workout starts.

Where Can I Buy Pre-Workout Supplements With Gaba In?

Gaba is sold separately or can be infused with pre-workout supplements. Take a look at Power Supps to find the right one for you.

What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Gaba Supplementation?

When you follow the guidelines and dosage instructions given to take Gaba, the side effects are very rare. That said, we still need to consider the potential side effects of Gaba. Here are a few:

  • Shortness of breath
  • A moderate drop in blood pressure
  • Drowsiness or nausea
  • A slight burn in your throat
  • Tingling sensation in your skin

Final Thoughts On Gaba Do in Pre-workout Supplements

Whether you’re struggling with sleep or needing an extra boost in the gym to help you achieve your fitness goals, GABA is a great supplement to help you get there.  By helping you stay calm and maintain focus and promoting the creation of GH in your system, you’ll find exercising slightly easier and more enjoyable.

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