L-theanine: Sleep better at night, feel relaxed during the day

L-theanine is an amino acid that is found in tea leaves. It was identified in tea by Japanese scientists in 1949. While tea is the most common dietary source for L-theanine, this compound is also found in some types of mushrooms. In foods, particularly green tea, L-theanine is thought to be a source of umami, the savory, brothy taste. It may stimulate metabolism, and may boost sensations of fullness and lengthen the time before hunger returns after eating.L-theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness. Many people take L-theanine to help ease stress and unwind.

How L-theanine works 
L-theanine promotes relaxation and facilitates sleep by contributing to a number of changes in the brain

Benefits of L-theanine

• Improving sleep

With its ability to increase relaxation and lower stress, L-theanine can help in sleep in a number of ways. L-theanine may help people fall asleep more quickly and easily at bedtime, thanks to the relaxation boost it delivers. Research also shows L-theanine can improve the quality of sleep—not by acting as a sedative, but by lowering anxiety and promoting relaxation.

• Reducing stress and anxiety

L-theanine has positive effects on both the mental and physical symptoms of stress, including lowering heart rate and blood pressure.It works to reduce anxiety. Some anxiolytics, such as valerian and hops, have sedative effects.L-theanine can help foster a state of calm, attentive wakefulness.

• Enhancing attention, focus, memory and learning

L-theanine may help boost other cognitive skills. Research shows L-theanine can increase attention span and reaction time in people who are prone to anxiety.

• Helping maintain a healthy weight

The anti-anxiety and sleep-promoting abilities of L-theanine may help people to maintain a healthy weight. After all, getting enough sleep and limiting stress are both key to sticking with a healthy diet and avoiding weight gain.