L-Theanine: Brain Fuel Or Just A Tea Trend? Decoding The Focus And Relaxation Supplement

L-Theanine is a trending supplement that is being used to boost brain health by improving focus and aiding in relaxation. The L-theanine is basically the non-protein amino acid predominantly found in tea leaves (black tea, green tea, and some mushrooms), and it is gaining traction as a popular alternative to promote relaxation. One of the aspects of this supplement is that it doesn't cause drowsiness, making it popular for those seeking to manage peak stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It can be found in pill and tablet form, which makes it an easy-to-consume supplement. In addition, it is popping up in energy drinks, focus stacks, and bedtime sleepy teas as an ingredient.

What Are The Sources Of L-Theanine?

The main natural source is Camellia sinensis(leaves or tea buds that are used to produce tea, with green tea containing the highest levels of L-Theanine. The rising popularity of L-Theanine prompts a key question: Is it truly an effective cognitive enhancer, or merely a product of clever marketing?

The mechanism of action of L-Theanine is how it is unique because it can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This is key to understanding how it impacts the human brain once consumed. The supplement stimulates the generation of alpha brain waves. Alpha waves indicate a state of relaxed alertness. In contrast, beta waves appear with high stress and concentration.

L-Theanine boosts GABA (the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, promoting calmness. In turn, this influences dopamine and serotonin (hormones linked to mood and well-being).

Ways To Consume L-Theanine And Why It Works Best With Caffeine?

The presence of caffeine increases alertness but often induces jitteriness, anxiety, and the dreaded post-caffeine crash. The role of L-Theanine lies in smoothing out the rough edges of caffeine.

It prolongs the focus effect while mitigating the negative side effects of caffeine consumption (jitters, crash, increased heart rate).

The ideal scientific boost occurs with a 2:1 ratio (eg, 200 mg of L-Theanine to 100 mg of caffeine).

Before trying it out yourself, there is a need to learn more about the potential health benefits, as well as any possible risks or complications.

Note: Do not consume any supplement before proper testing and seek assistance from a medical professional for the recommended dosage based on your unique physiology.

What Are The Benefits Of Consuming L-Theanine?

The popular supplement has a vital role in anxiety reduction by focusing on its ability to lower baseline stress indicators such as cortisol (stress hormone).

It promotes subjective feelings of calm without sedation, offering a non-drowsy relaxation state. This is beneficial for achieving a state of relaxation without feeling drowsy.

L-Theanine improves sleep quality without being a sedative, which essentially means that it doesn't put you to sleep, but it helps improve the quality of sleep by promoting deeper relaxation and reducing mind racing before bed.

It has a potential role in reducing stress-related insomnia (a common sleep disorder wherein you are unable to sleep), and it also impacts the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it.

What Is The Dosage, Safety, And Sources Of L-Theanine?

The most common natural sources of L-Theanine are tea, but it's important to note that the steeping time and temperature at which the tea is consumed affect the absorption of the supplement. The easiest way to ensure a consistent dosage of this supplement is to consume a tablet as prescribed by a medical professional after proper testing.

While this supplement is generally recognized as safe or GRAS for short, on its manufacturing. But it does have minimal side effects, as everyone's physiology is different and bodily requirements vary according to lifestyle choices.

Note: Please get tested and consult a medical professional before starting any supplement, and take a prescription to follow proper protocol. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate supplements globally. If you have a pre-existing health condition or are taking any medications, be extra careful while consuming any supplements.

Here is a list of the side effects of consuming L-Theanine:

Here is a list of the dosage amounts for its specific purposes, based on its intention and use:

Who Can Use L-Theanine As A Supplement?

This supplement can be used by students and professionals who need sustained, clear focus.

Please consult your primary care doctor before starting any new supplement, as it's helpful to be extra cautious with the consumption of unregulated supplements.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.