How does L-theanine make you feel?
L-theanine supplements are commonly taken for sleep issues, stress, and anxiety at doses ranging from 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) daily.According to Zumpano, if you’re looking to try L-theanine in tea or supplement form, it’s a good idea to take it in the evening before going to bed and not pair it with any coffee or caffeinated beverage.While L-theanine is often used to alleviate anxiety, it can increase feelings of anxiety in some people. This is extremely rare but is most likely caused by the changes the L-theanine has on how the brain deals with serotonin and GABA.Preclinical studies have reported that L-theanine may reduce brain cell death [6] and oxidative damage [7], and increase levels of protective chemicals [8], but these effects have not been confirmed in humans.L-theanine can be safely taken in individuals with elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis, but it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking the supplement, as they may advise monitoring liver enzymes or adjusting the dose.
What happens if you take L-theanine every day?
When taken by mouth: L-theanine is possibly safe when used short-term. Doses of up to 900 mg daily have been safely used for 8 weeks. It isn’t clear if L-theanine is safe to use for longer periods of time. It might cause mild side effects, such as headache or sleepiness. As a supplement, L-theanine supports mental clarity and focused attention without causing drowsiness. It helps calm your mind from overthinking while keeping you alert and composed, making it a perfect ally for those seeking calm focus without agitation.Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry focused on people living with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Researchers found that L-theanine decreased anxiety and improved symptoms (3).Think of it this way. Use Ashwagandha when you’re burned out, overwhelmed, or dealing with chronic stress. Use L-Theanine when you need in-the-moment calm without drowsiness. Some people benefit from taking both: Ashwagandha for long-term balance and L-Theanine for immediate relief.Before taking L-theanine supplements, talk with your health care provider, if you regularly take any medications. Some sleep medications such as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and zolpidem (Ambien) may interact with L-theanine and cause more drowsiness.
Does L-theanine have a noticeable effect?
Some reports noted that l-theanine intake at standard supplement dosages (50-250 mg) increased alpha waves in healthy people and promoted a state of psychophysical relaxation. This relaxation was observed only in people with slightly higher than average basal levels of anxiety [50,51] or during periods of stress. A calming effect is usually noted within 30 to 40 minutes after L-theanine is taken at a dose of 50 to 200mg, and typically lasts 8 to 10 hours. Moderate anxiety symptoms often improve with a regimen of 200mg once or twice daily.Generally, the effects are felt within the first 30 minutes and have been shown to last up to 8 to 12 hours. Based on the results of clinical studies, it has been established that l-theanine is effective in the range of 50 to 200 mg.Some studies suggest l-theanine may increase alpha waves in the brain associated with relaxation and selective attention, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality, though findings are often inconsistent. Potential neuroprotective and anti-seizure effects have also been reported in animal models.L-theanine has an average rating of 5. Drugs. Xanax has an average rating of 8. Drugs.
How quickly does L-theanine kick in?
Onset of Effects Most users begin to notice the effects of L-Theanine within 30 to 60 minutes of taking it. However, several factors can affect this timeframe: Form of L-Theanine: Capsules, tablets, or powders may differ in absorption rates. Some formulas dissolve faster, leading to quicker effects. The calming effects of L-theanine usually kick in within about 30–60 minutes after taking it. To help treat insomnia, ADHD and hyperactivity, doses of 200 milligrams taken twice daily are usually most effective.Research shows that L-theanine supplements can elevate your levels of GABA, dopamine and serotonin, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety levels. A randomized trial from 2019 found that healthy adults who took L-theanine over the course of four weeks had a decrease in stress-related symptoms.Some studies suggest l-theanine may increase alpha waves in the brain associated with relaxation and selective attention, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality, though findings are often inconsistent. Potential neuroprotective and anti-seizure effects have also been reported in animal models.Published data suggests that L-theanine administered at daily doses ranging from 200 to 400 mg for up to 8 weeks are safe and induce anxiolytic and anti-stress effects in acute and chronic conditions.Research shows magnesium may reduce anxiety, stress, and sleep, while L-theanine may aid relaxation but could also increase focus for some people. Addressing overall sleep habits is crucial, as supplements alone may not resolve sleep issues.
Who should avoid taking L-theanine?
Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding people should likely avoid L-theanine supplements. Speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information. Immune effects: L-theanine impacts the immune system. L-Theanine’s effects on stress and cortisol levels Cortisol contributes to increased blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, and sleep quality disturbances, among other things. Studies show that L-theanine lowers cortisol to a healthy level and may improve sleep quality.You may take L-theanine at any time of day. Taking L-theanine in the morning can support a healthy stress response. You might take it at night before bedtime to promote restful sleep.A change in the balance of these chemicals can change a person’s mood or stress levels. Small studies and tests on animals have shown that L-theanine may offer a range of benefits. Experts consider it to be generally safe, but there is currently a lack of high-quality research in humans to confirm its benefits.Research has linked high blood pressure with a higher risk of several health problems, including heart attack and stroke. L-theanine may help reduce stress, and a reduction in stress and increased relaxation can lower the heart rate. In turn, this may help lower blood pressure.
Is L-theanine safe for toddlers?
L-Theanine for Kids: a Naturally Calming Supplement L-theanine may be a suitable supplement for kids. At this time, there are no known side effects of l-theanine for kids and it is unlikely that side effects will be discovered. L-theanine is a simple amino acid, as mentioned, derived from tea (but without caffeine). Lowers levels of “excitatory” brain chemicals. At the same time, it is increasing chemicals that promote feelings of calm, L-theanine also reduces levels of chemicals in the brain that are linked to stress and anxiety. This may also be a way that L-theanine can protect brain cells against stress and age-related damage.The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024 2, found that L-theanine has a protective effect on acute alcoholic liver injury in mice, mitigating liver tissue damage and reducing serum levels of liver enzymes.I take L-theanine, which is a natural supplement to help with stress and anxiety. I also take magnesium for muscle health and energy,” the singer wrote.