GABA vs. Phenibut—Which Actually Affects the Body’s GABA More?
GABA is considered to be the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter within the human body. It is responsible for slowing things down and helping to calm our mind and body. GABA is an essential chemical with a number of benefits. Another supplement known as Phenibut is also thought to act as a precursor to GABA. Although both are very effective, ultimately the real goal is to increase the level of GABA circulating in the brain and body. Which one is more effective as a supplement?
What is Phenibut?
Phenibut is a supplement that was developed in Russia during the Cold War. The timing is one of the reasons why it has escaped the attention of western research for so long. In fact, this supplement has been in widespread use throughout Russia and Eastern Europe since the 1970s. It is also part of the required pack for Russian cosmonauts.
In terms of structure, Phenibut is quite similar to GABA. The main difference is that its creators added a Phenyl ring of molecules to the GABA. This addition changed it into a different compound with one incredible benefit—it is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier quite easily, something which natural GABA is not able to do.
Phenibut Powder Benefits:
The essential benefit of Phenibut Powder is that it absorbs into the bloodstream rather quickly and then enters into the central nervous system by crossing over the aforementioned blood-brain barrier. As it is then transformed into GABA, it has the effect of exerting an overall calm to the brain and body. You will feel the stress just melting away.
GABA Benefits:
Of course, GABA that is actually in the brain is capable of helping you to relax. This relaxation includes lower levels of stress, nervousness, and possibly even feelings of sadness. Overall mood will be enhanced. It is easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Conclusion—GABA vs. Phenibut:
Assuming the main goal is to actually increase the level of GABA circulating within the brain, then there is no question that Phenibut is a better supplement. As a direct supplement, GABA is simply not able to cross over the blood-brain barrier and enter into the central nervous system.