What Are the Benefits of L-theanine?
L-theanine is one of the 500 amino acids that exist. While this may be one of the lesser-known ones, it’s a remarkable amino acid that’s found primarily in tea leaves, especially green tea.
L-theanine is known for the numerous health benefits it offers, ranging from stress management to improved cognition. In this blog, we take a look at what L-theanine is, how it works, and the many benefits it has to offer.
So, if you're curious about what L-theanine can do for you, read on to explore the possibilities.
What is L-theanine?
L-theanine is an amino acid primarily found in tea leaves, especially in green tea (Camellia sinensis). It can also be found in black tea and certain mushroom species. This amino acid is not produced in the human body, nor is it essential for our bodies to function, unlike other amino acids (like histidine, isoleucine, leucine, and lysine).
What Does L-theanine Do?
L-theanine increases the production of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters impact our concentration levels, alertness, mood and sleep.
What are the Benefits of L-theanine?
From stress reduction to improved cognition, L-theanine can offer numerous benefits. However, this can be impacted by the time it’s taken as well as whether it’s taken with any other substances, like caffeine. Keep reading to learn more about the potential benefits L-theanine can offer.
Better Stress & Anxiety Management
L-theanine increases GABA production; simultaneously, it also inhibits glutamate activity. This combined effect helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels, leaving one feeling calm and serene.
Improved Cognitive Function
This may seem like a contradictory benefit compared to the previous one, but it’s true! Studies have indicated that the consumption of this amino acid can contribute to an improved attention span and better reaction times.
When consumed in conjunction with caffeine, the effects are more impressive. The combination of the stimulant (caffeine) and L-theanine leads to increased alertness and overall focus.
Better Sleep Quality & Enhanced Relaxation
We’ve already mentioned L-theanine’s ability to induce a more relaxed, calm state. In doing this, L-theanine helps people to fall asleep more easily and experience deeper, more restful sleep. This has been supported by a clinical trial conducted in 2018, which found that participants who consumed approximately 450–900 mg every day over the course of 8 weeks reported better sleep satisfaction.
Lower Blood Pressure
Research has found that consuming L-theanine can benefit overall cardiovascular health by decreasing one’s blood pressure through stress management. Of course, if you have any other heart conditions, it’s advised that you consult a healthcare professional before using L-theanine for this purpose.
Stronger Immune System
Several studies have looked into the impact of L-theanine on the immune system. These various studies have indicated that this amino acid could help the body prevent the flu, reduce the likelihood of upper respiratory tract infections and reduce intestinal inflammation.
L-Theanine at Rejuvenated?
L-theanine, sourced from the leaves of tea plants, offers a range of benefits, from alleviating stress and anxiety to sharpening your focus and improving sleep quality.
As science continues to unlock the secrets of this amino acid, it's clear that L-theanine holds the promise of a calmer, more focused, and healthier future for those who embrace its potential. So, why not check out our Cellular Calm Complex and explore what L-theanine can do for you.
