Supplement
GABA
The calm neurotransmitter in Huberman's sleep stack.
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter. We grade GABA C on evidence and C for worth-it at about $8-12 per month.
Evidence
Worth it
Typical cost: $8-12/month
What it does
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter. As a supplement it is sold for calm and sleep, though whether oral GABA crosses the blood-brain barrier in meaningful amounts is debated.
What the research says
May support relaxation before bed
Evidence: emerging. Small trials and traditional use; the blood-brain barrier question is unresolved.
DRAFT: plausible mechanism, small and mixed human trials, unresolved pharmacokinetics.
What the experts say
Every position links to its source. We include skeptics alongside supporters.
Andrew Huberman
“3-4 nights per week I also take 2g of Glycine and 100mg GABA.”
Source, 2021 Takes 100 mg GABA 3-4 nights per week as part of his sleep stack.
Is it worth it?
DRAFT: cheap, but you may be paying for an effect that does not reach the brain.
Typical cost
$8-12/month
Common form, not a brand recommendation
Dosage contextemerging
100-200 mg before bed is the commonly used range.
Safety notes
Generally well tolerated; daytime drowsiness is possible at higher doses. Talk to your doctor. This page is information, not medical advice.
Longevity Lab Report
GABA news, graded when it happens.
New studies, dose debates, and expert shifts on gaba, in one email a week. Free.
Changelog
Last updated 2026-10-15
- 2026-10-15|Batch 3 entry, DRAFT. Grades provisional; expert positions unsourced unless noted.