What To Know About GABA-Infused Drinks

You Should Know: You’ve probably noticed it too: fewer people are winding down with a glass of wine at the end of the day. That’s where GABA drinks come in. These alcohol-free “social tonics,” like Sentia Spirits and Kin Euphorics, claim to help you relax by using the same chemical your brain already makes to calm itself.

Going Deeper: GABA, short for gamma-aminobutyric acid, is sometimes called the brain’s “off switch” because it helps you relax when you’re stressed. It occurs naturally in foods like broccoli and fermented vegetables. The idea behind these drinks is that adding a little extra GABA — or ingredients that help the brain use it better — can help you unwind. Fans say they’re pleasantly surprised by the flavor and notice a gentle sense of calm after a couple of servings, though it’s hard to tell whether that comes from the ingredients or just the act of sitting down with a nice drink.

Takeaway: Most of the buzz around GABA drinks comes from personal experience rather than controlled studies. The science still has some catching up to do, but at least you can count on waking up clear-headed the next morning after drinking them.