L-Theanine

L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid discovered in 1949 which is found in the leaves of the tea plant. Green tea and white tea contain theanine, while black tea does not because the oxidation process used to make black tea destroys the theanine content.

Today, L-theanine is used for a variety of health benefits.

Benefits of L-Theanine

Stress Relief - A study published in 2007 found that L-theanine intake resulted in reduced heart rate and salivary responses to a stressful task when compared with a placebo. It was also found to promote alpha brain waves, an indicator of alert relaxation.

Well-Being - Four different animal studies indicated that L-theanine produces dopamine. Dopamine is a hormone that produces a sense of wellbeing; it is released during pleasurable activities such as sex or eating. In 2004, a study was conducted by Harvard medical school that indicates that it also acts as an immune booster and that it increases the body’s resistance to colds and flu.

Lowered Cholesterol - In 2002, another paper was published concerning L- theanine benefits to cholesterol levels and studies conducted on both humans and gerbils. The indication is that it could help LDL concentrations to remain normal instead of undergoing oxidation. In short, that means keeping good cholesterol in balance with bad cholesterol.

Anti-Cancer - Studies have found that L-theanine has the following benefits for cancer patients:

• Increases the concentration of anti-cancer drugs in tumours.
• Reduces the concentration of anti-cancer drugs in other tissues, where they are not needed.
• Inhibits the growth of cancer tumors themselves.

PMS - Studies Japan have shown that women taking 200 mg L-theanine daily have lower incidence of PMS symptoms. These symptoms include physical, mental, and social symptoms. Overall, a significant alleviation of PMS symptoms by L-theanine was observed.

Weight-loss- The catechins and theanine in green tea work in combination to decrease concentrations of harmful triglyceride fats and non-esterified fatty acids, promoting fat oxidation.

Memory - L-theanine has a significant effect on the release or reduction of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, resulting in improved memory and learning ability.

Sleep - L-theanine supplements are also safer alternatives for sleeping pills. It doesn’t make you sleep, but it gives you the feeling of tranquility and calmness so you can naturally go to sleep.

Blood Pressure - By lowering norephineprine levels, l-theanine is a potential anti-hypertensive agent. Norephinephrine regulates the body’s blood pressure and when it increases, there is also a corresponding increase in the systolic and diastolic pressure in the arteries.

Where can I find L-theanine?

L-theanine can be consumed by drinking green or white tea although it’s been suggested that it does not contain a sufficient amount to be beneficial. L-theanine supplements can be found in health food stores

Remember

No side effects have been reported for L-theanine. However consult your GP before taking it if you use any prescription drugs or if you are pregnant