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PharmaGABA 250 and 100

by Carly Neubert, BA, NC on November 30, 2022
Thorne has a plethora of reliable and tested formulas that are of the highest quality and effectiveness within the supplement industry. I have written about Thorne multiple times, from its overall brand to individual products. In this article, I will be focusing on something that I’m sure we could all use more of (especially after 2020 and 2021) - those things are sleep and relaxation.

One of the long-term effects of the COVID pandemic, as well as the various events socially and politically of the past decade, has been decreases in mental health and proper sleeping habits. According to an article written by the President of the National Institute of Mental Health, Dr. Joshua Gordon, the CDC saw significant increases in health issues that were self-reported. This article was written in April 2021, so we can  only assume how exponential the increases have been since then. The pandemic has increased our awareness of symptoms to be aware of, and the resources that are available to help those in need. While this product by Thorne is not intended to be a cure-all for mental illness or sleep issues, it can help provide support for multiple symptoms that many Americans have been experiencing in the past 2 years (and the years prior). 

Insufficient sleep is dangerous. Not only is it simply annoying to not get enough sleep, but it accounts for an economic impact of $411 billion each year. 75% of adults with depression also suffer from insomnia, according to the Sleep Foundation. Increases in wearable technology with apps that track your sleeping can be helpful, but can also increase the amount of time your eyes are exposed to all that blue light, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Overall, sleep continues to be a large concern for most Americans. Whether it be due to COVID-19, your job, or your personal life, sleep issues can affect all aspects of your life. 

GABA, or gamma-Aminobutyric acid, is an inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system (CNS). What does this mean? It means that it blocks certain signals in the CNS, slowing down the brain. This can provide a calming effect on the brain, as well as the body as a whole. While this neurotransmitter is found in foods, it is primarily in items like kimchi and miso. The fermentation process that occurs when the GABA in Thorne’s PharmaGABA products are produced utilizes the same bacteria that is used in the fermentation process of kimchi - Lactobacillus hilgardii. Kimchi is good, but I don’t see myself eating it with every meal or eating 3 cups right before bed. That is why I recommend GABA supplements instead. 

GABA supplements like Thorne’s can support the following:

  • Anxiety relief
  • Stress reduction
  • Sleep improvement

People who take this kind of supplement are usually trying to address their anxiety or sleep without going down the route of prescribed medication. These kinds of supplements are also used to lower blood pressure and stimulate natural growth hormones. 

There are a few recorded interactions with medications that should be noted. Those who are taking high blood pressure medications, antidepressants, or medications that affect their brain activity should all consult with healthcare professionals before starting a GABA supplement. 

FAQs

What is the difference between GABA and PharmaGABA?

Other GABA supplements can include synthetic GABA that may not provide the level of benefits you are hoping for. Thorne’s PharmaGABA supplement has natural PharmaGABA, a natural form of GABA produced through fermentation.

Does PharmaGABA help you sleep?

Yes, the natural GABA promotes a calm brain state and restful sleep. 

Does GABA have bad side effects?

According to Psychology Today, GABA supplements are generally well-tolerated by adults. Some people may experience nausea, diminished appetite, constipation, drowsiness, and muscle weakness. 

Is PharmaGABA safe?

Yes, this supplement is safe for use as long as you properly address any interactions. Both the PharmaGABA-250 and PharmaGABA-100 are non-habit forming as GABA is naturally produced in your own brain and body.

Is GABA bad for the liver?

No, in fact, previously, these studies had observed benefits in rats that had partial-liver transplants. 

What’s the difference between PharmaGABA 250 and 100?

The difference is the amount of natural GABA in each bottle. PharmaGABA-250 has 250 mg of natural GABA. PharmaGABA-100 has 100 mg. 

Further Readings

The podcast series, “Let’s Talk Withdrawal” focuses on something that many Americans face: stopping psychiatric drug use. Whether it be SSRIs or another form of medication for mental health, this podcast provides real-life examples and testimonials on the road to recovery. 

Antidepressant use in teenagers after COVID-19 is an interesting topic to learn about, especially when you consider that the Millennials and Gen Z are going to become the largest generations soon. An episode of “All in the Mind” goes over this change in mental health treatment for the younger generations. 

Concluding Thoughts

With the increased awareness of mental health and the ways that our personal and professional lives can affect our mental wellbeing, it is no wonder that so many supplement brands are trying to provide a supplement that makes their customers’ lives better. With the busy lives we all have, sleep is something that we should be able to depend on for support and overall wellbeing. Are you wanting to address your sleeplessness this year and are curious about how PharmaGABA can benefit you? Schedule a consult with me, Carly Neubert BA, NC.

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