GABA and Weight Gain – A Scientific Perspective

What is GABA?

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the human brain. Its primary function is to inhibit excessive neuronal activity, which has a calming effect on the central nervous system¹. GABA is synthesized in the body from glutamate and plays a key role in regulating sleep, anxiety, mood, and stress responses.

A deficiency in GABA can lead to the following symptoms:

• Sleep disturbances

• Irritability and nervousness

• Muscle tension

• Difficulty concentrating²

In such cases, a high-quality GABA supplement can help restore balance – for example, in the form of MST GABA 1000 mg capsules or the synergistic MST Good Night Sleep Formula, which combines GABA, L-tryptophan, magnesium, and plant extracts.

[products-list]

GABA’s Effects on Sleep

The effect of GABA on sleep has been scientifically studied multiple times. GABA helps shorten the time it takes to fall asleep, increases deep sleep phases, and thereby improves nighttime recovery³. Healthy sleep, in turn, has wide-ranging effects on the hormonal balance, particularly on:

• Cortisol (stress hormone)

• Leptin and ghrelin (appetite regulation)

• Growth hormone (GH), which is primarily released at night

GABA and Weight Loss Experiences

Does GABA Cause Weight Gain?

The assumption that GABA directly causes weight gain is not supported by scientific studies. On the contrary, GABA indirectly supports weight management, because it:

• Improves sleep quality → better sleep = more balanced appetite and lower stress³

• Reduces stress → lower cortisol levels can help prevent cravings¹

• Boosts GH secretion → promotes recovery and muscle growth³

🔍 Conclusion: Direct weight gain from GABA is not possible. Instead, GABA helps restore physiological balance, which may counteract weight gain – especially in people with chronic sleep deprivation or stress.

GABA Dosage: What Makes Sense?

Most studies use dosages between 100–800 mg per day.
MST GABA 1000 mg provides an effective daily dose for targeted support before bedtime.
The MST Good Night Formula combines a moderate dose of GABA with other sleep-promoting substances – ideal for more sensitive individuals.

Usage:

• GABA 1000 mg: 1 capsule 30–60 minutes before bedtime

• Good Night with GABA: 2 capsules in the evening as part of your sleep routine

Recognizing GABA Deficiency Symptoms

A deficiency in GABA often presents with:

• Trouble falling asleep

• Racing thoughts, nervousness

• Increased muscle tension

• Poor stress tolerance

Anyone experiencing these symptoms may benefit from GABA supplementation, especially during stressful periods of life.

Conclusion: GABA and Weight – No Need to Worry!

GABA does not cause weight gain – quite the opposite: by reducing stress, improving sleep, and supporting hormonal regulation, GABA can help stabilize body weight over the long term.

With MST GABA 1000 mg or the Good Night Formula with GABA, you get clinically backed supplementation to promote sleep and well-being – made in Germany, lab-tested, and effective.

References

1. Abdou, A. M., et al. (2006). Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. Biofactors, 26(3), 201–208. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.5520260305

2. Boonstra, E., et al. (2015). Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior.Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 1520. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01520

3. Yoto, A., et al. (2012). Oral intake of GABA affects mood and sleep in humans: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Biofactors, 38(3), 164–167. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.1005