L-theanine is an amino acid known for promoting mental balance and inner calm. It is said to induce a state of alert relaxation without fatigue. L-theanine is also believed to alleviate anxiety and promote sleep.
Find out more about L-theanine and how this amino acid works here.
What is L-theanine?
L-theanine is an amino acid that is extracted from the leaves of the tea plant Camellia sinensis . However, unlike many other amino acids, L-theanine does not serve as a protein building block.
In terms of structure, L-theanine is very similar to the neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA. L-theanine can bind to GABA and glutamate receptors and thus appears to affect the nervous system and influence brain activity.
What is L-theanine good for?
L-theanine is currently being actively researched in studies. Although there is currently no health claim for L-theanine that has been officially approved by the EU, the results of studies are very promising.
For stress
Clinical studies have investigated the extent to which L-theanine could influence subjective stress perception.
L-theanine can bind to GABA receptors in the brain, which means it may have a GABA-like effect. GABA is a calming neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation.
In addition, some studies have observed an increase in alpha waves in the brain following L-theanine supplementation. Alpha waves occur during states of relaxation. However, this was only the case in subjects who suffered from anxiety.1
Although these results are promising, the stress-relieving effect of L-theanine has not been proven and requires further investigation.
For concentration problems
Individual studies are currently investigating whether L-theanine could influence cognitive functions such as attention and memory.
In a study with subjects suffering from mild cognitive impairment, increased attention and improved memory performance were observed after L-theanine supplementation.2
Since L-theanine is said to promote relaxation and concentration at the same time, it is also referred to as a state of "alert relaxation."
These findings are also considered inconclusive and require further research.
For stress-related high blood pressure
A connection between L-theanine and blood pressure regulation is also being scientifically investigated.
Stress can cause blood pressure to rise. L-theanine, on the other hand, can promote the formation of nitric oxide (NO) – a messenger substance that has a vasodilatory effect and can thus lower blood pressure.
In one study, people who react to stress with high blood pressure experienced a drop in blood pressure after taking L-theanine.3
Here, too, further Research is needed before definitive statements can be made.
For sleep problems
A study has investigated L-theanine in children with ADHD. ADHD is often accompanied by disturbed and very restless sleep.
As a result of taking L-theanine, sleep quality improved significantly within 6 weeks.4
However, it does not appear to cause drowsiness like sedatives, but rather promotes sleep by promoting relaxation and alleviating anxiety.
However, the studies on this are also limited, and it is not yet possible to say with certainty whether L-theanine actually promotes sleep.
What are the side effects and interactions?
L-theanine is very well tolerated and does not usually cause any side effects. At high doses, L-theanine could theoretically impair driving ability. However, this effect does not occur at doses of up to 200 mg.
However, there may be interactions with medications, especially sedatives, antidepressants, antiepileptics, and cancer drugs. If you are taking medication, you should therefore discuss the use of L-theanine with your doctor.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take L-theanine due to a lack of safety data.
Buy L-theanine
As with all dietary supplements, there are significant differences in the quality of L-theanine. It is best to choose a high-quality green tea extract that specifies the theanine content. Also, make sure that the product has been laboratory-tested for purity and does not contain any unnecessary additives such as sweeteners, flavorings, colorings, or fillers.
The L-theanine from Viktilabs naturally meets all these criteria.
Youcan find L-theanine from Viktilabshere .
