Exploring The Impact Of L-Theanine On Anxiety And Wellness

L-theanine: An amino acid present in green tea

Certain teas, including oolong, black, and green teas, naturally contain the amino acid L-theanine, as do several kinds of mushrooms. In addition to oolong, green, and black tea, supplements containing L-theanine can also be found in liquids, powders, and capsules. People from many cultures have utilized this amino acid and its chemical components for ages to soothe anxiety, encourage relaxation, and in certain situations, raise perceived awareness. Furthermore, because of its neuroprotective properties, a new prospective, randomized experiment indicates that it may enhance executive brain function, memory, attention, and other cognitive abilities. While the precise mechanism of action of L-theanine in the body is unknown, it is generally accepted that it raises serotonin and GABA (a neurotransmitter involved in nervous system regulation) levels in the brain. Additionally, it might prevent L-glutamic acid from interacting with brain glutamate receptors. The result is a decrease in stress chemicals like cortisol and a relaxing of the neurological system. According to studies, taking 200 mg of L-theanine daily may, in eight weeks or less, dramatically lower stress levels and the high blood pressure that goes along with it. There are also no known negative side effects.

The connection between anxiety and L-theanine

L-theanine may help alleviate typical symptoms of anxiety disorder and stress-related symptoms like the following since it appears to help balance levels of different neurotransmitters linked to stress:

excessive fretting and brooding

Anxiety

Intolerance

Tension in the muscles

In an effort to understand more about how natural chemicals like these may help people with mental health conditions, researchers have looked at this relationship. According to a 2021 placebo-controlled research investigation, L-theanine may be able to lessen the people who are suffering with anxiety. It states that in response to an acute stress challenge, the supplement “significantly increased frontal region alpha power compared to placebo,” changes that are “indicative of relaxation in the brain and suggest a calming response.” It was also noted by the researchers that L-theanine ingestion was “safe and well-tolerated by participants” in this placebo-controlled study.

The connection between ADHD and L-theanine

L-theanine has the potential to alleviate symptoms of several medical diseases, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), due to its impact on neurotransmitter levels. 4.4% of adults are thought to be affected by this type of neurodivergence, which is typified by impulsive conduct, hyperactivity, and/or difficulties focusing. There may be a connection between L-theanine and less symptoms of ADHD, according to research. For example, a 2021 review of research on the subject suggests that using L-theanine in addition to coffee may increase “short-term sustained attention and overall cognition,” with some studies also indicating that it may help with memory impairment. Similarly, a 2019 clinical investigation discovered that by reducing mind-wandering, L-theanine, caffeine content, and/or the two together appear to improve sustained attention tasks and overall cognitive function in children with ADHD. But be aware that L-theanine may reduce the potency of several stimulant drugs that are frequently used for ADHD; see your doctor before using it.

Additional possible advantages of amino acids, such as L-theanine

This ingredient, which can be found in both black and green tea, may also offer additional health benefits. It is being investigated as a potential treatment option for major depressive disorder since it is believed to raise dopamine levels in the brain, which can enhance good mood. Additionally, it might facilitate the development of a relaxed brain state, which facilitates improvements in the quality of objective sleep, which has been linked to a number of advantages for both physical and mental health. Additionally, as sleep disruptions are often linked to anxiety and depression, L-theanine may also help lessen symptoms in this regard. Lastly, some studies suggest that perioperative oral administration of L-theanine and other amino acids may help lower stress and speed up post-operative recovery. Are you trying to find a good strategy to deal with anxiety.

Is L-theanine secure to use?

Once more, it’s advised that you speak with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any form of supplementation or making major dietary changes. One explanation is that some vitamins and some drugs can have unfavorable interactions. If a medical practitioner determines that you can safely take this supplement, they can also assist you in figuring out how much is right. When taken excessively, L-theanine can cause headaches, nausea, and other negative consequences; therefore, it is best to use it sparingly to avoid negative effects. It’s also important to remember that, despite the fact that L-theanine and other tea ingredients have been shown to be safe and may have short-term benefits, less is known about the possible long-term implications of taking this supplement on a regular basis. It’s one more reason to speak with your doctor before starting any supplement regimen, particularly if it will be sustained over an extended period of time.

Additional anxiety remedies

It is not thought that L-theanine provides a complete cure for clinical anxiety disorders or any other mental health issues. Similar to other lifestyle modifications, including eating healthily and getting regular exercise, it just might, as an adjuvant treatment, help lessen symptoms and/or improve the outcomes of medical care. Psychotherapy is the usual course of treatment for anxiety, however it is occasionally combined with medicines. For those with anxiety disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most popular types of talk therapy. CBT aims to teach a person how to identify and change faulty thought processes that can be causing them to feel distressed or exhibiting other symptoms. A therapist can also teach a patient appropriate coping skills so they can deal with symptoms when they appear.