The Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) has received approval for its utility model applications for Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA).
DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña said it took a year for the FNRI to complete its studies on GABA and eventually got approval for its six utility model applications.
These include Orange Sweet Potato Powder Rich in GABA; Process for Producing Orange Sweet Potato Powder Rich in GABA, Green Tomato Powder Rich in GABA, Process for Producing Green Tomato Powder Rich in GABA, Green Tomato Powder Rich in GABA, Process for Producing Green Tomato Powder Rich in GABA.
"Studies have shown that GABA lowers hypertension, induces relaxation, promotes good sleep, has calming effect, diminishes anxiety, delays and/or inhibits cancer cell proliferation, and improves long term memory,” de la Peña said in his Facebook post.
He said brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease were observed to have very low GABA content.
"GABA concentration in the brain decreases with age. It helps in retention of memories and was found to delay onset of Alzheimer’s disease,” the DOST chief said.
He cited that germinated brown rice is abundant in GABA that helps in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.