The Role of GABA in Health and Well-Being - Discussion between Dr. Scott Sherr and Dr. Mercola
Dec 12, 2023
auto_awesome
Dr. Scott Sherr, Director of Integrative Hyperbaric Medicine and Health Optimization, discusses the role of GABA in health and well-being. They cover topics such as GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, the conversion process from glutamate to GABA, stress hormone's impact on GABA production, and the controversy surrounding GABA's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. They also touch on the importance of aligning sleep with circadian rhythm, the benefits of meditation in increasing CO2 levels, and the significance of proper breathing, CO2 tolerance, and insulin levels.
GABA is an important neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain, regulating brain activity and essential for learning, memory, and skill acquisition.
The production of GABA is influenced by various factors such as nutrient deficiencies, chronic stress, and leaky gut and brain issues, and supplementing with positive allosteric modulators like Kava, Valerian root, or nicotinyl GABA can enhance GABA production and function effectively and safely.
Intermittent hypoxic training (IHT) and hyperbaric therapy can both have beneficial effects on the body by leveraging oxygen and stress response, enhancing mitochondrial function, biogenesis, and releasing stem cells and angiogenesis.
Deep dives
GABA: The Unsung Neurotransmitter
GABA is an important neurotransmitter that often goes unnoticed compared to more well-known neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. However, GABA plays a crucial role in the brain, acting as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter. When balanced with the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, GABA helps regulate brain activity and is essential for learning, memory, and skill acquisition. Deficiencies in GABA have been associated with a range of mental health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and impulsiveness. GABA supplementation, although challenging due to its large molecule size, can be achieved through alternative approaches such as using positive allosteric modulators like Kava, Valerian root, or nicotinyl GABA, which enhance GABA production and function without the risk of addiction or withdrawal.
The Importance of Optimizing GABA Production
The production of GABA is influenced by various factors, including nutrient deficiencies and chronic stress. Co-factors such as vitamin B6 and magnesium are vital for GABA synthesis. Chronic infections and high levels of stress hormones can hinder the conversion of glutamate to GABA. Addressing leaky gut and leaky brain issues is crucial, as these conditions can deplete glutamine, a necessary precursor for GABA production. Supplementing with GABA alone may not be effective due to its limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. However, attaching GABA to other substances like vitamin B3 can enhance its delivery to the brain. Additionally, natural compounds like Kava, Hanokiol, and Valerian root can modulate the GABA system effectively and safely.
Exploring the Benefits of Intermittent Hypoxic Training and Hyperbaric Therapy
Intermittent hypoxic training (IHT) and hyperbaric therapy can both have beneficial effects on the body by leveraging oxygen and stress response. IHT involves alternating between periods of lower oxygen concentration and higher oxygen concentration. This stimulates the body's ability to adapt to changing oxygen levels and enhances mitochondrial function and biogenesis. On the other hand, hyperbaric therapy increases oxygen levels in a controlled environment, promoting the release of stem cells and angiogenesis. While more research is needed to compare the hormonal responses of IHT and hyperbaric therapy, both modalities can offer significant benefits when utilized appropriately. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach and frequency for these therapies.
CBD and GABA Modulation
CBD modulates the GABA receptor and acts as a positive allosteric modulator, enhancing GABA activity. This can promote relaxation, stress reduction, and increase parasympathetic tone. CBD is used at high doses for its therapeutic effects, including its ability to enhance GABA.
Breathwork, CO2, and Sleep
Breathwork practices such as meditation, yoga, and HRV training can increase CO2 tolerance. This can lead to better oxygenation and maintained sleep as CO2 helps regulate the oxygen dissociation curve. Proper CO2 levels are vital for vasodilation, stress management, and a balanced sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.
In this interview, Dr. Scott Sherr, director of integrative hyperbaric medicine and health optimization at Hyperbaric Medical Solutions, reviews the action of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the role it plays in your physical and mental health.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
