While we’ve all heard about melatonin, the hormone naturally made by the body and that can be taken as a supplement, that helps regulate your sleep cycle. But there’s another lesser-known equally powerful, and body-made substance called GABA, that has more powerful properties for a wide range of body functions and support issues.

What is GABA?

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a naturally occurring amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter in your brain. Neurotransmitters function as chemical messengers. GABA’s big role in the body is to reduce the activity of neurons in the brain and central nervous system, and it also plays a role in the healthy functioning of the body’s immune and endocrine systems, as well as in the regulation of appetite and metabolism.

How Does GABA work?

When GABA attaches to a protein in your brain known as a GABA receptor, it produces a calming effect. By having the effect of moving the brain and the body into lower gear, this can help with occasional feelings of anxiety, stress, and fear. It may also help to prevent seizures, help lower muscle pain and headaches, help with insomnia and other sleep problems.

How Can I Get GABA?

The body produces GABA, and is found naturally in varieties of green, black, and oolong tea, and some fermented foods, such as kimchi, miso, and tempeh. These are not foods that most people include in their daily diets, so some people take GABA supplements to achieve the benefits.

FX Chocolate’s Exhale chocolate GABA supplement contains 100 mg of GABA and 100 mg of L-Theanine per serving, both of which are wellregarded for promoting mental and emotional calm without impairing focus and attention.* Not only is chocolate a treat in itself, but GABA is the true power punch that helps combat stress and promotes mental calm all in one bite.