The Dr. Gundry Podcast Is Your Anxiety a GABA Issue? (and not serotonin) | EP 364
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Aug 12, 2025 
Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and expert in integrative medicine, discusses the often-overlooked neurotransmitter GABA, known as the brain's 'off switch.' He reveals how GABA deficiency can drive anxiety and sleep issues, sharing natural ways to boost GABA levels through lifestyle shifts and dietary choices. The conversation delves into the impact of modern hustle culture on mental health, the complex relationship between neurotransmitters, and innovative alternatives to traditional anxiety treatments. Tune in for valuable insights on achieving neurological balance!
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GABA Is The Brain's Brake
- GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that acts like the brake against glutamate’s gas pedal.
- Imbalance between glutamate and GABA drives overstimulation, anxiety, insomnia, and brain dysfunction.
Glutamate–GABA Drives Most Brain Signaling
- About 80% of brain neurotransmission is driven by the glutamate–GABA balance rather than serotonin alone.
- The body converts glutamate into GABA using vitamin B6 and magnesium, linking nutrition to neurotransmitter balance.
Lower Stress And Fix Nutrition To Preserve GABA
- Reduce chronic sympathetic activation by lowering stress, improving sleep, and fixing inflammation to preserve GABA production.
- Support conversion cofactors like vitamin B6 and magnesium and address leaky gut to protect GABA enzymes.