Why I Recommend L-Theanine
L-Theanine is a nonessential amino acid that can affect the nerve pulses in the brain and the release of neurotransmitters. L-theanine enhances the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, and also appears to play a role in the formation of GABA – a neurotransmitter that acts like a "brake" during times of runaway stress.
It was discovered in 1949 by Japanese scientists in tea leaves. L-theanine is up to 50% of the total amino acids in green tea, with about 25-60 milligrams per 7 oz of tea.
Because L-theanine is almost exclusively found in tea leaves, supplementation is very common. Most commonly, L-theanine is taken in 100-200 mg per day. The calming effects begin around 30 minutes to an hour after taking.
L-Theanine is often used to treat anxiety, hyperactivity and sleep problems because it has a calming effect on the brain and is non-drowsy. Along with helping ease the effects of anxiety and stress, L-Theanine has some great benefits.
Healing Properties of L-Theanine
Help relieve anxiety and reduce the effects of stress:
L-Theanine is known for its relaxation effects and stress-fighting capabilities. With it also being non-drowsy, it is great for helping you deal with stress without causing you to feel lethargic or tired. L-theanine can help those who are fighting nervousness, anxiety or other stress-related issues.
Help Improve Attention:
Often people will use L-theanine with caffeine to help with alertness, attention, and cognition. These two work together to improve focus without getting that jittery feeling. This is why Matcha is very popular as an alternative to coffee. Matcha is powdered green tea and contains caffeine (although not as much as coffee) and L-theanine.
Help with sleep and insomnia:
Because stress and anxiety can affect how well you are sleeping- L-theanine can be great for improving sleep. Animal studies have found that L-theanine blocks glutamate from binding to cells in the brain. L-theanine also affects other neurotransmitters, increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, and serotonin levels while decreasing levels of norepinephrine. These combined chemical changes may slow brain activity promote positive feelings, and reduce both alertness and anxiety.
Several studies of the effects of L-theanine on brain activity have found that L-theanine at doses ranging from 50 to 200 milligrams increases alpha brain waves compared to a placebo. Alpha brain waves are the most prevalent brain waves in people who are relaxed or drowsy.