7 Best GABA Supplements in 2025

GABA supplements may help you manage stress, sleep, and anxiety by calming your nerve cells. Stress from work, personal problems, or other challenges can increase anxiety and disrupt the balance of chemicals in your brain. This imbalance can cause you to feel more anxious, restless, or have trouble sleeping.

Studies suggest that taking GABA supplements can help balance your mood by promoting relaxation and reducing overactive nerve activity. This may lead to better sleep, a calmer mind, and an overall sense of well-being.

However, GABA does come with some potential downsides, particularly at higher doses. While side effects are typically mild, they may include drowsiness, nausea, or headaches. Higher doses could lead to excessive relaxation or daytime sleepiness, potentially affecting alertness.

In this exclusive review, we explore the 7 best GABA supplements on the market, highlighting their unique features, side effects, and overall pros and cons.

7 Best GABA Supplements

1. NOW Foods GABA Supplement

   

   NOW Foods GABA formulation provides a 500mg dose of GABA and a 2mg dose of vitamin B6 in a single capsule. The addition of vitamin B6 could assist your body in producing more GABA naturally.

   The makers state that NOW Foods GABA formulation is Kosher, vegan-friendly, and non-GMO, catering to various dietary preferences. NOW Foods GABA also holds NPA GMP certification, which means that its products are thoroughly audited for potency, formulation, and stability.

   GABA may help lower feelings of anxiety and boost focus by enhancing clarity. Regular use of GABA formulations might also support better recovery after exercise by relaxing muscles and reducing tension.

   Vitamin B6 may complement GABA’s effects by supporting better sleep. It could help your body synthesize melatonin, the hormone responsible for influencing your sleep cycle. It may also help your body produce neurotransmitters like serotonin/dopamine, which might boost your mood.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • It provides a 500mg dose of GABA per capsule, which may help lower stress and promote calmness.
   • NOW Foods GABA also includes vitamin B6 to support the production of neurotransmitters and complement GABA’s effectiveness.
   • It comes in both 100- and 200-capsule serving sizes, providing you with the option to select a quantity that fits your needs.
   • NOW Foods GABA is NPA GMP-certified, ensuring that it adheres to rigorous quality standards for safety and efficacy.
   • It offers a vegan-friendly formula that’s also kosher and free from allergens like gluten, egg, dairy, soy, etc.
   • NOW Foods GABA comes in two different concentrations of GABA, the 500mg pack and the 750mg pack.

   Cons

   • You might experience mild drowsiness, nausea, or headaches after using NOW Foods GABA, especially if you’re new to it.
   • It may negatively interact with medications like sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs, requiring caution.
   • The size of the NOW Foods GABA capsule is fairly large and difficult to swallow.

2. Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine Supplement

   

   Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine claims to help you stay calm, focused, and balanced. It pairs GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation, with L-theanine, an amino acid known for supporting mood and focus while encouraging calmness.

   According to the official site, each serving (2ml or four pumps) of Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine contains 250mg of GABA, 134mg of phosphatidylcholine, and 100mg of L-theanine. They may help support the nervous system, lower stress, and elevate overall mood.

   However, L-theanine may trigger side effects like irritability, jitteriness, diarrhea, headaches, or nausea in some cases. Phosphatidylcholine might also lead to adverse health interactions, such as excessive sweating, diarrhea, or stomach upset.

   The makers state that Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine utilizes a “Quicksilver Delivery Systems®,” which uses advanced liposomal delivery technology.

   Liposomal delivery means encasing nutrients in tiny fat-based particles called liposomes, which might help protect them from being broken down in the digestive system. It may allow your body to absorb the nutrients more efficiently, contributing to faster and more effective results.

   Taking Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine is straightforward, as you just need to pump 2-4 doses under your tongue and let it absorb for 30-90 seconds. The method may feel a bit unusual at first, but it could eliminate the need for water or a mixing process.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • The use of a liposomal delivery system may help your body absorb the nutrients more efficiently, leading to faster results.
   • It combines 250mg of GABA and 100mg of L-theanine per serving to support relaxation, reduce stress, and improve focus.
   • The liquid-based form requires just a few pumps under the tongue, eliminating the need for water or mixing.
   • It is manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility and third-party tested, which may help reflect its quality and reliability.
   • Regular use might help support emotional health, stabilize mood, and promote a calm state of mind.
   • It offers a vegan formulation, which also has a gluten-free, soy-free, sugar-free, allergen-free, and non-GMO profile.

   Cons

   • The liquid delivery system of Quicksilver Scientific GABA + L-Theanine may not provide consistent doses.
   • It could be typically more expensive per serving than capsule-based GABA formulations.
   • L-Theanine and phosphatidylcholine might cause side effects like irritability, headaches, or digestive issues.

3. Thorne PharmaGABA Supplement

   

   With 100mg of GABA per capsule, Thorne uses PharmaGABA, a specialized form of GABA that could help relieve anxiety symptoms. Thorne PharmaGABA is available in two different potencies, 100mg and 250mg, each costing $29 and $53 per bottle, respectively.

   Clinical studies indicate that oral GABA administration might help decrease the brain’s stress-related beta waves and increase alpha waves. Such effects could help promote deep physical relaxation while helping you stay mentally focused.

   PharmaGABA might also minimize signs of stress, such as pupil size, heart rate, and two stress markers (salivary cortisol and chromogranin A). All these effects may point to a more relaxed state.

   As per the makers, the natural GABA in Thorne’s PharmaGABA is produced through a fermentation process that uses Lactobacillus Hilgardii.

   Since Thorne PharmaGABA affects the brain’s neurotransmitters, it might not be suitable if you have some neurological conditions or are taking medications that influence brain chemistry. PharmaGABA might also cause side effects like dizziness, headaches, or digestive discomfort.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • Thorne uses “PharmaGABA,” a scientifically-backed formulation, which could help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
   • It is available in two strengths (100mg and 250mg), and you may easily adjust your dosage to meet your personal needs.
   • Thorne PharmaGABA is third-party tested and meets cGMP compliance, ensuring that you’re getting a safe and effective GABA formulation.
   • It might help minimize physical signs of stress, such as pupil size, heart rate, and stress biomarkers like salivary cortisol.
   • The fermentation process used to produce PharmaGABA may provide you with a cleaner, more potent form of GABA, ensuring higher quality and potency.

   Cons

   • It could be costly, especially for long-term use.
   • The effectiveness and results of PharmaGABA might vary from person to person.

4. Nutricost Pure GABA Powder

   

   According to the official site, a single scoop (0.5g) of Nutricost Pure GABA powder features 500mg of GABA, which lasts 1000 servings. While the powdered form of GABA does require mixing into a liquid, it could allow for customizable dosing and convenience.

   Nutricost Pure GABA powder may support cognitive function, as GABA’s calming effects could improve focus and concentration during stressful situations. It might also support sleep quality, which may be particularly beneficial if you’re struggling with insomnia or restlessness.

   The makers state that Nutricost Pure GABA powder is gluten-free and non-GMO, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. It is made in a GMP-compliant facility and undergoes third-party testing, which may help ensure strict quality control standards and potency.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • Nutricost Pure GABA allows for adjustable dosages, providing flexibility for you to customize your intake.
   • It may promote better sleep by enhancing relaxation due to GABA’s ability to promote calmness and lower stress levels.
   • Nutricost products are made in a facility that adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices.
   • Nutricost Pure GABA powder is free from gluten and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

   Cons

   • Nutricost Pure GABA may have a taste or texture that isn’t pleasant for everyone, requiring mixing with other liquids to mask the flavor.
   • You might experience mild side effects such as dizziness, headaches, or digestive discomfort, especially with higher doses.

5. Double Wood GABA Supplement

   

   Each bottle of Double Wood GABA supplement contains 300 capsules, with a dose of 2 capsules per day. They feature 1000mg of GABA per serving (2 capsules), which might help calm an overactive nervous system, elevate mood, decrease anxiety, and promote relaxation.

   Double Wood’s GABA supplement is made and tested in the USA, using high-quality ingredients sourced globally. It undergoes thorough testing for microbes and heavy metals to ensure its safety. It is also non-GMO and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

   As per the makers, Double Wood provides Certificates of Analysis (COA) and third-party testing results. The COA may provide a detailed breakdown of ingredients and their potency, while the third-party results could help validate the quality and purity of Double Wood’s products.

   While Double Wood’s GABA formulation offers a high level of transparency with its Certificates of Analysis (COA) and third-party testing results, some may find the price point to be higher than other GABA formulations on the market.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • Double Wood focuses on premium ingredients that are non-GMO and free of artificial additives, ensuring a more natural experience.
   • It could help you unwind and reduce stress, contributing to a relaxed state of mind.
   • Made in a GMP-certified facility, Double Wood products adhere to strict manufacturing practices, indicating assurance of quality and safety.
   • You might experience better overall mood and emotional stability after taking Double Wood GABA formulation, possibly due to GABA’s effect on neurotransmitter function.

   Cons

   • The large size of Double Wood GABA capsules may cause swallowing difficulties, which is inconvenient for some users.
   • For those with chronic anxiety or panic disorders, Double Wood GABA formulation may not provide immediate relief.
   • There is insufficient evidence regarding the safety of GABA supplements during pregnancy or lactation.

6. Source Naturals Serene Science GABA Calm Supplement

   

   Source Naturals Serene Science GABA Calm supplement pairs GABA and glycine with N-acetyl L-tyrosine, which supports the synthesis of brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine that influence mood and focus. Taurine is also included to optimize GABA’s calming effects.

   Serene Science GABA Calm comes in a lozenge form, which dissolves easily in your mouth for quick results. Each lozenge contains 125mg of GABA, 5mg of magnesium, 50mg of glycine, 25mg of N-acetyl L-tyrosine, and 20mg of taurine. They may offer a balanced profile to help promote relaxation and focus.

   Magnesium in Serene Science GABA Calm may support relaxation by helping influence nerve and muscle function, potentially reducing stress. Glycine may help relax your brain, contributing to better sleep and a sense of calm.

   However, magnesium may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or cramps if taken in high doses. N-acetyl L-tyrosine might lead to headaches or upset stomach. Although rare, taurine may trigger dizziness or an upset stomach, especially in people sensitive to taurine.

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • It pairs GABA and glycine with calming properties, which could help you unwind and lower stress levels.
   • The lozenge form may dissolve quickly in the mouth, providing fast and easy absorption for quick relief when needed.
   • It may help encourage dopamine and norepinephrine production, which may improve your mood and focus, especially during stressful situations.
   • Serene Science GABA Calm supplement is available in peppermint and orange flavors, offering a more enjoyable experience.
   • The GMP certification of Serene Science products might help you trust the quality and safety of what you’re putting into your body.

   Cons

   • It may negatively interact with some medications, particularly MAOI antidepressants.
   • Serene Science GABA Calm might cause drowsiness, making it unsuitable for daytime use or before driving.

7. Pure Encapsulations GABA Supplement

   According to the official site, Pure Encapsulations GABA formulation provides 700mg of GABA in a single capsule. Taking Pure Encapsulations GABA might help increase alpha waves in the brain, which may reduce stress. It could also help maintain healthy IgA levels, which may support your immune system, especially during stressful periods.

   Pure Encapsulation’ GABA formulation contains a trace amount of vitamin C as ascorbyl palmitate. The makers state that Pure Encapsulations’ GABA does not contain common allergens, including GMOs, gluten, eggs, and peanuts. It is produced in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, ensuring that each product meets strict quality standards for purity and consistency. However, personal experiences and responses to GABA might vary from person to person.

   

   Pros & Cons

   Pros

   • Pure Encapsulations’ GABA has calming effects, which may help lower stress and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
   • It is free from common allergens like gluten, peanuts, and GMOs, making it suitable for those with food sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
   • Pure Encapsulations’ GABA supplement comes in easy-to-swallow capsules.
   • It is produced in a GMP-certified facility in the US.

   Cons

   • 700mg dosage could be too strong for some people.
   • The amount of vitamin C per serving isn’t listed, leaving you unaware of any benefits or potential interactions with vitamin C.
   • You might experience headaches or stomach discomfort.

What Are GABA Supplements?

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter in your brain may help calm brain activity. It could help slow down nerve signals, which might help make you feel more relaxed and less stressed.

You could take GABA supplements to help with sleep issues, stress management, and improving your mood. This could help in increasing GABA levels that can balance brain activity, especially in cases where the brain is overactive. For example, when the brain is too active, it can cause anxiety or make it hard to sleep.

However, GABA supplements might not work the same for everyone. This is because GABA has a difficult time crossing the blood-brain barrier, which means that for some people, the supplements may not have as much of an effect.

How Does GABA Supplement Work?

When you take a GABA formulation, it may help increase the levels of GABA neurotransmitter in your brain. GABA could help promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve mood by suppressing excessive neural activity.

Essentially, GABA supplements may help turn down the activity of overactive brain signals, helping you feel more at ease and less stressed. They may support the brain’s inhibitory systems, which might reduce the overactivity of brain pathways linked to stress and anxiety.

Since GABA naturally acts as a sedative, it may support better sleep by promoting relaxation before bedtime. It could help influence the activity of neurons responsible for wakefulness, which might help your body and mind transition into sleep more easily.

However, there’s limited research on how well GABA supplements may cross the blood-brain barrier, which could impact their overall effectiveness. So, while they might work well for some, they may not be as effective for others.

Potential Side Effects Of GABA Supplements

1. Drowsiness And Sedation

   GABA might cause drowsiness or a feeling of sedation, especially when taken in higher doses. It could be because GABA may help calm your brain and reduce overactivity in the nervous system.

   As a result, you might feel unusually sleepy or less alert, which could affect your daily activities, particularly if you need to focus or drive. If you are already taking medications that promote relaxation or sleep, such as benzodiazepines or sleep aids, GABA supplements may worsen it.

   If you experience drowsiness with GABA intake, it might be a good idea to start with a lower dose and gradually raise it, allowing your body to adjust.

2. Headaches

   You may experience headaches as a side effect of taking GABA supplements. It could occur due to changes in neurotransmitter balance. The headaches might be mild to moderate and may happen, especially if you are new to GABA or taking higher doses than recommended.

   If you find that headaches persist or worsen, you might want to reduce the dose or stop taking GABA formulations altogether.

3. Digestive Issues

   GABA supplements may cause digestive discomfort in some people, including bloating, gas, or an upset stomach. It could be due to how GABA affects the gut-brain connection, which influences overall digestion.

   In more severe cases, taking GABA could lead to nausea or diarrhea, especially if paired with other supplements or medications. If you notice any gastrointestinal distress, it’s a good idea to discontinue GABA use.

How to Choose The Best GABA Supplements?

1. Dosage

   Research suggests that a typical dosage range for GABA supplements could be between 250 mg to 750 mg per day. The right dosage for you may depend on factors such as your body size, sensitivity to GABA, and the specific reason you’re taking GABA. For example, a lower dose might be sufficient if you’re using GABA to support relaxation or improve sleep. Higher doses of GABA supplements, such as those with 500mg or more, could be helpful in reducing mild anxiety or stress. If you’re uncertain about the right dosage, it’s a good idea to start with a lower amount, such as 250 mg, and observe how your body responds. Gradually raising the dose over time may help you avoid potential side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.

2. Form of GABA

   When choosing a GABA supplement, you should consider the different forms available, as each offers unique benefits. Capsules and tablets are the most common and convenient options, potentially suitable if you prefer a simple, quick intake.

   If you need a larger dose or prefer to mix your formulations into a drink, GABA powder might be a better choice. The powdered form might allow you to adjust your dosage to your specific needs, as it may easily be added to smoothies, shakes, or water.

   For faster absorption, Liposomal GABA could be a better option. It might be beneficial for those who struggle to swallow pills or want quicker effects, as it is absorbed more rapidly than other forms, allowing you to feel the benefits sooner.

   Therefore, you should consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing the best form of GABA for your needs.

3. Added Ingredients

   GABA supplements may contain ingredients like L-theanine, melatonin, or valerian root, which may promote relaxation and improve sleep.

   For example, L-theanine might help reduce anxiety and improve focus, while melatonin could help you fall asleep faster. Valerian root might help support relaxation and reduce stress, which could help with both sleep and overall calmness.

   However, you should be mindful of the combination of ingredients to avoid potential interactions or side effects. Some ingredients may interact with each other or with any medications you’re currently taking. It might lead to unwanted effects, such as excessive drowsiness or sluggishness during the day.

4. Price And Value

   You should consider the price when choosing a GABA supplement, as the cost may vary widely between products. To make a well-informed decision, compare the cost per dose instead of just looking at the overall price of the bottle.

   The method might help you assess the true value of the GABA formulation, as some may have a higher price but offer a more concentrated dose, providing better value in the long run. It may also be useful to consider whether the GABA product has been tested for quality.

   While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest options, it’s important to be cautious. Lower-priced GABA products may use lower-quality ingredients, which could impact their effectiveness.

   In some cases, cheaper GABA supplements may not contain the precise amount of active ingredient they claim. They might also include fillers that could reduce the product’s benefits.

5. Brand Reputation

   Look for GABA brands that provide transparency about their sourcing and quality control measures, like third-party testing and manufacturing processes.

   Brands that are open about how their GABA products are made are more likely to offer high-quality, safe, and effective formulations. A strong brand reputation also typically means a commitment to customer satisfaction and safety.

   Brands with a positive reputation tend to focus on customer feedback, adjusting their products based on user experiences. Reading customer reviews through multiple online sources may give you insights into other users’ experiences, including whether they noticed improvements in sleep, stress, or anxiety.

6. Third-Party Testing

   Third-party testing may help ensure that the GABA product is tested by an independent laboratory, separate from the manufacturer, to verify its quality and potency.

   Going for third-party tested brands may give you confidence that they contain the precise amount of active ingredients and do not comprise any harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or bacteria.

   Without third-party testing, it might be difficult to independently verify the manufacturer’s claims, which may lead to potential safety or effectiveness issues. It might help uncover any discrepancies in the ingredient amounts, confirming that what’s on the label matches what’s in the bottle.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are the Signs of Low GABA Levels?
   If you’re experiencing increased anxiety, difficulty sleeping, or heightened stress, these symptoms might be indicative of low GABA levels. You may also notice mood swings or trouble concentrating, which might indicate your brain’s need for the GABA neurotransmitter.
2. Can GABA Formulations Help With Weight Loss?
   GABA formulations might support weight loss goals indirectly by improving sleep and reducing stress, which often negatively impacts your appetite and cravings. Better sleep quality may boost metabolism, potentially contributing to your slimming goals.
3. Are There Any Dietary Sources of GABA?
   Fermented foods like yogurt, cheese, and kimchi may contain GABA. Including these in your diet might help boost your GABA levels naturally, supporting better mood and relaxation.

Conclusion

Increased anxiety, heightened stress, or trouble sleeping might be indicative of low GABA levels, which may hint at the need for increasing GABA intake. Taking GABA supplements could help raise your GABA levels, which might help lower stress, elevate mood, and improve sleep quality.

Finding the right GABA formulation requires considering factors like dosage, ingredients, price, safety, and third-party testing status. Options like Nutricost, NOW Supplements, Thorne Research, and Double Wood Supplements might provide a good balance between these factors.

However, people below 18 years of age, pregnant or nursing mothers, or people taking medications that affect the nervous system should refrain from taking GABA supplements unless advised by a doctor.