L-Theanine
The stress caused by the hectic daily life of modern urban society is constantly increasing the popularity of means for reducing tension and anxiety, with natural products enjoying the greatest interest. Among them, the amino acid L-theanine stands out, which affects nerve impulses in the brain and the production of neurotransmitters to exert its calming effect without causing drowsiness.
What is L-theanine?
This compound is a non-essential amino acid that is structurally very similar to glutamine, but differs significantly in its effects and benefits for the human body. Both amino acids support mental health and increase energy levels, but L-theanine's action as a natural stress reducer is much more powerful.
Glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the bloodstream, is necessary for the production of the neurotransmitter glutamate, which has a pronounced excitatory effect. L-theanine has the ability to bind to the same receptors as it and, thanks to this, has the opposite, inhibitory effect.
The best sources of L-theanine are various types of tea – green, black, white, as well as some types of mushrooms. Since most people do not drink enough tea to get the necessary amounts of the amino acid, its deficiency is not uncommon. L-theanine is not used by the body to build proteins or produce enzymes such as carnitine, leucine, lysine, methionine or tryptophan, but consuming sufficient amounts can significantly help maintain good mental health.
What are the health effects of L-theanine?
→ Helps reduce stress and anxiety – L-theanine has been shown to stimulate the production of the neurotransmitters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, and dopamine, which help improve mood, concentration, cognition, and emotional control. Its effects are comparable to those of synthetic anxiolytics, but without their side effects, including drowsiness.
→ Helps maintain healthy stress levels – The anti-stress effect of L-theanine is due to its ability to inhibit the excitability of neurons in the cerebral cortex. The amino acid has the property of crossing the blood-brain barrier and affecting the work of two very important parts of the brain, called the amygdala and the hippocampus, which are responsible for fear reactions and memory.
→ Improves sleep quality – By reducing stress and anxiety, which are among the main causes of insomnia, tossing and turning, and frequent awakenings, L-theanine contributes to significantly improving the quality of nighttime sleep. An important advantage of the amino acid is its ability to neutralize the effects of various stimulants, such as prescription medications or large amounts of coffee.
→ Supports heart health – According to a number of scientists, the beneficial effects of green tea on the cardiovascular system are mainly due to its high content of L-theanine. The amino acid helps prevent sudden changes in blood pressure caused by stressful events. It also improves the regulation of nitric oxide levels – a compound that the body produces to aid in intercellular signaling, regulate blood pressure by dilating arteries, and alleviate inflammatory processes.
Scientific research shows that L-theanine has a number of other beneficial health effects. The amino acid contributes to the regulation of attention, concentration, cognitive abilities and memory, helps regulate immune function and supports the treatment of tumors and cancers.
Method of administration:
For adults over 18 years of age: 1 capsule daily.
