Benefits of L-theanine
L-theanine crosses into the brain and affects neurotransmitters in such a way as to promote calmness and improve mental focus.* Consumption of l-theanine is also associated with positive mood.* It counters the negative effects of stress-induced adrenaline secretion and supports normal blood pressure.* It does not cause sedation during the day, but does support natural sleep at night.* Because theanine is metabolized by the same pathways as other amino acids in the body, there appears to be little risk of tolerance and dependence.*
Improved focus and concentration associated with l-theanine consumption has been well documented. The electrical activity of the brain can be measured by an EEG instrument. When a person is going about normal daily activities, brain energy is very erratic and irregular. The EEG will show a wave-form called a beta-wave. When a person is focused in deep concentration, a smooth wave-form will be produced called an alpha-wave. A study conducted in Japan showed that volunteers who had had a serving of theanine were more apt to produce alpha waves than volunteer controls who had not taken theanine.
Other benefits include:*
- Promotes calm
- Promotes focus and concentration
- Supports normal sleep
- Supports normal blood pressure
- Associated with positive mood
Side effects are extremely rare. L-theanine is a very safe supplement that has been used by humans for thousands of years.