GABA for sleep: what it is and what the research says
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid your body makes. GABA supports a calm, relaxed state at night.*
What is GABA?
GABA is a naturally occurring amino acid that also acts as a signaling molecule in the nervous system. As a dietary supplement, it is sold on its own and in nighttime formulas.
What does the research say about sleep?
- A 2015 human study by researchers at a GABA manufacturer looked at oral GABA and an herbal leaf extract (Apocynum venetum) and measured sleep outcomes, including sleep latency. [1]
- A 2016 single-blind, placebo-controlled crossover EEG study used oral GABA and reported shorter sleep latency and more non-REM time versus placebo in the abstract. The GABA dose is not stated in the PubMed abstract. [2]
- Research is still limited. Studies are small, some are industry-linked, and designs vary, so more independent work is needed.
How much GABA is in Knocked?
Knocked Sleep Support contains 100mg GABA per 2-capsule serving.
GABA vs melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone. GABA is an amino acid. They are different ingredients. If you'd rather skip melatonin, Knocked Sleep Support is the sleep supplement without the melatonin.
Why we pair it with magnesium, L-theanine and apigenin
Knocked Sleep Support is the sleep supplement without the melatonin. Each 2-capsule serving contains:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| GABA | 100mg |
| L-theanine | 200mg |
| Magnesium (as magnesium glycinate) | 110mg elemental |
| Apigenin | 50mg |
FAQ
Can I take GABA every night? Follow the label directions, and ask your doctor what's right for you.
Is Knocked melatonin-free? Yes. 100% melatonin-free.
How does GABA relate to L-theanine? Both appear in Knocked Sleep Support. L-theanine promotes a calm, relaxed mind.* Read L-theanine for sleep.
Comparing approaches? See Knocked vs melatonin. Watching your caffeine? Try the Caffeine Cutoff Calculator.
Sources
- Yamatsu A, et al. The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. 2015;61(2):182-187. PMID 26052150. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26052150/ (abstract-level review; study product included GABA 100mg plus another extract)
- Yamatsu A, et al. Effect of oral γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration on sleep and its absorption in humans. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2016;25(2):547-551. PMID 30263304. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30263304/ (abstract-level review; dose not stated in the PubMed abstract)
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.