Does L-theanine actually help with ADHD?
Promotes Alpha Brain Waves: L-theanine increases the production of alpha brain waves, which are associated with a state of relaxed alertness. This state can help improve focus and concentration while reducing anxiety and hyperactivity, making it easier for individuals with ADHD to stay on task. L-theanine has been historically reported as a relaxing agent, prompting scientific research on its pharmacology. Animal neurochemistry studies suggest that L-theanine increases brain serotonin, dopamine, GABA levels and has micromolar affinities for AMPA, Kainate and NMDA receptors.The short answer is this, though: Ashwagandha works as an adaptogen to support your body’s stress response, whereas L-theanine interacts with brain waves and impacts neurotransmitters to create a sense of calm without causing sedation. If you were going to add just one to your lifestyle, it should be L-theanine.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.When combined with caffeine, l-theanine may improve cognitive performance, alertness and focus. However, the evidence supporting many health claims remains limited, especially the lack of rigorous human clinical trials.
How long does L-theanine take to work for ADHD?
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.L-theanine may offer a natural way to treat ADHD. L-theanine can help improve attention and focus and has a calming effect on the mind. It is also relatively safe, with few side effects.There is no evidence that L-theanine can replace ADHD treatment. However, it may complement or supplement treatment. In people for whom ADHD treatment is unsafe or ineffective, it could be an alternative. Research on L-theanine is new, and there is very little such research.Some alternative treatments, including practicing yoga and spending time outside, may have a positive effect on ADHD symptoms. Research suggests that supplementing treatment with a consistent healthy diet, regular physical activity, and time in nature may also be helpful for managing ADHD symptoms.
Is there a downside to taking L-theanine?
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. 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.After being absorbed into the body, L-theanine can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and regulate the secretion of neurotransmitters of central nervous system cells [13] and levels of hormones such as corticosterone (CORT) and adrenaline (EPI) in the serum.Some studies suggest Suntheanine may have more reliable potency and bioavailability due to its controlled production process. Suntheanine products can make health claims that plain L-Theanine cannot, due to research that has been performed on the Suntheanine form, specifically.A: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that L-Theanine increases estrogen levels in the body. In fact, some studies have shown that L-Theanine may actually decrease estrogen levels.
Why do I feel weird after taking L-theanine?
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. L-theanine is an amino acid that may improve attention and focus by promoting a calm but alert mental state. Studies support its use for cognitive enhancement, particularly when paired with low doses of caffeine. It is generally safe and effective when used in recommended doses of 100–200 mg.For example, L-theanine has been shown to blunt both caffeine’s blood-pressure-increasing effects and its sleep-disrupting effects. However, theanine does not appear to blunt the beneficial effects of caffeine on cognitive performance.So, should you take L-theanine in the morning or at night? If you’re looking to get a good night’s sleep, take L-theanine at night. For example, if you need help getting to sleep, you won’t want to drink caffeinated tea at night, so you should opt for caffeine-free or herbal tea before bed.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.Theanine side effects If you are drinking large amounts of tea to consume L-theanine, it may cause effects similar to those from a high intake ofcaffeine , such asupset stomach and irritability.
Can L-theanine act as a stimulant?
L-theanine may affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA and dopamine ( 5 ). Some studies have suggested that L-theanine, especially when combined with caffeine, can improve attention and brain function ( 6 , 7 ). Preclinical studies suggest that L-theanine has antipsychotic-like and possibly antidepressant-like effects.Conclusion. L-theanine offers a promising natural option for individuals with ADHD who are seeking to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and support overall well-being. Its ability to promote a state of relaxed alertness makes it particularly suited to addressing some of the core challenges of ADHD.If you’re going to take L-theanine to gain more alertness and mental clarity, you should take it during the day,” advises Zumpano. It does seem to do better with coffee or a caffeinated beverage.L-theanine, an amino acid found in Gyokuro tea, improves attention and focus, especially when combined with caffeine. This duo reduces impulsivity and enhances cognitive performance, making Gyokuro tea a potential aid for those with ADHD.
What not to combine with L-theanine?
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. 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.Many social media users recommend taking a “stack” (or combination) of magnesium and L-theanine supplements for better sleep. Both have been touted for reducing anxiety or stress, and there’s reason to believe they may help some people sleep.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.When combined with caffeine, l-theanine may improve cognitive performance, alertness and focus. However, the evidence supporting many health claims remains limited, especially the lack of rigorous human clinical trials.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.
Is L-tyrosine or L-theanine better?
Both amino acids can be helpful, but for different purposes. I tend to see L-Theanine recommended more often for promoting that calm, focused state, especially when combined with coffee, while L-Tyrosine seems to be more about boosting alertness and motivation. People with ADHD have at least one defective gene, the DRD2 gene that makes it difficult for neurons to respond to dopamine, the neurotransmitter that is involved in feelings of pleasure and the regulation of attention.ADHD brains have low levels of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is linked arm-in-arm with dopamine. Dopamine is the thing that helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure center. The ADHD brain has impaired activity in four functional regions of the brain.Causes. While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include genetics, the environment or central nervous system conditions at key moments in development.L-Tyrosine L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that is synthesized within the body from phenylalanine. L-Tyrosine is important in the production of many of the body’s proteins and neurotransmitters, which are linked to ADHD: epinephrine, dopamine, and norepinephrine.