What Is GABA?

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the brain’s primary calming neurotransmitter. If glutamate is the brain’s accelerator pedal, GABA is the brake pedal. It slows excessive nerve activity, helping you stay calm, sleep well, think clearly, and avoid becoming overwhelmed by stress.

Without enough GABA, the nervous system becomes overactive. Many people describe the feeling as being “tired but wired.” They feel exhausted, yet their mind refuses to slow down.

How Does Inflammation Affect GABA?

Inflammation pushes the brain toward over-excitation in several ways. It increases glutamate release while reducing the brain’s ability to clear excess glutamate. At the same time, inflammation interferes with the production and function of GABA, reducing the brain’s natural braking system.

The result is an imbalance: too much excitation and not enough inhibition. This state, called excitotoxicity, overstimulates brain cells and has been linked to anxiety, insomnia, poor concentration, and other mental health problems.

What Happens When GABA Is Low?

Low GABA activity can contribute to:

  • Anxiety
  • Feeling constantly “on edge”
  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Racing thoughts
  • Poor stress tolerance
  • Irritability
  • Muscle tension
  • Difficulty relaxing

Many people describe the sensation as being unable to “turn their brain off.”

Inflammation pushes the brain’s accelerator harder while weakening its brakes.