We live in an extremely fast-paced and competitive world. Strenuous hours of intellectual work are the reality for many people, so it’s critical for us to stay sharp and creative. But is it possible to improve our academic performance without causing long-term adverse effects?

This article will discuss L-theanine, a natural component found in green tea. It helps to improve concentration and reduce stress and doesn’t give you the jitters. Do you think it’s too good to be true? Read more to find out exactly what L-theanine is and which are the best L-theanine products on the market. 

What is L-Theanine?

L-theanine is a type of amino acid present in tea leaves. It’s the source of umami, a savory, brothy flavor in green tea[1]. While tea is L-theanine’s most popular dietary source, you can also find it in certain mushrooms.

L-theanine works by lowering “excitatory” neurochemicals that cause tension and anxiety and boosting brain chemicals that induce relaxation[2]. These chemicals include serotonin and dopamine, which impact mood, sleep, and emotion, as well as cortisol, which aids the body in dealing with stress.

L-Theanine is taken orally to reduce anxiety and stress, prevent Alzheimer’s disease, treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and improve mental function and concentration. It also helps lower blood pressure, prevent the flu, and improve the efficacy of cancer medicines[3].

How to Get Started With L-Theanine

If you’re new to L-theanine and would like to give it a shot, here’s everything you need to know:

Available Forms 

L-theanine supplements are available in various forms, including hard capsules, gummies, soft capsules, tablets, powder, and chewable tablets. 

Dosage

The recommended daily L-theanine dose is 50 to 400 mg. If you wish to sleep better, amounts ranging from 250 to 400 mg should help. If you’re preparing for something stressful, consider 200 mg, which will help you relax by lowering your resting heart rate and treating anxiety[4].

Time

L-theanine supplements work best when taken right before a mentally demanding task. You can also take them every morning or mid-afternoon to promote relaxation and sleep quality.

Taking With Food

There’s very little information about the impact of diet on L-theanine absorption. Most manufacturers, however, suggest taking the supplements on an empty stomach.

Things to Keep in Mind When Purchasing L-Theanine

The bonding agents used to mix the ingredients may contain undesirable byproducts. If you have any dietary restrictions, always check the label before purchasing.

Aside from that, the most crucial factor to consider is the cost. Unless you’re looking for supplements with ingredients other than L-theanine, there’s no harm in going with the lowest bid. 

Keep in mind that doses can vary, so while you’re shopping, choose an amount that treats the exact condition you’re trying to tackle — anxiety, mild stress, insomnia, and so on. 

We’ve put together a list of the top six L-theanine supplements on the market so that you don’t have to!

Best L-Theanine Supplements

1. Suntheanine L-Theanine 

Sports Research L-Theanine is a suntheanine supplement made with pure coconut oil and packaged in a liquid soft-gel for rapid absorption and release. Suntheanine, an award-winning component in Sports Research L-Theanine, promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness or tiredness. It’s a high-quality substance that helps the digestive system absorb more nutrients.

The organic virgin coconut oil in Sports Research L-Theanine aids in absorbing L-theanine in your body. It’s a non-GMO product free of hexane, titanium dioxide, stearates, etc. Experts have discovered an increase in alpha brain waves in L-theanine users, indicating that this supplement positively impacts brain function[5]. 

This supplement comes in the form of liquid soft gels. This delivery technique improves absorption in the gut and through the blood-brain barrier, potentially increasing the product’s effectiveness. 

Sports Research L-theanine aids with concentration and focus. It acts similarly to caffeine but without any jitters. L-theanine is a natural compound, meaning it does not require a prescription to purchase.

Specifications:

• Ingredients: 
  • L-Theanine (200 mg)
  • Organic Beeswax 
  • Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
  • Softgel Capsule (gelatin, purified water, vegetable glycerin)
• Product Dimensions : ‎4.1 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches; 0.48 Ounces
• Item Form: Softgel
• Flavor: Coconut
• Material Feature: Certified Organic, GMO-Free, Gluten-Free

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2. Jarrow Formulas Theanine

Jarrow Formulas is a company that places a premium on the quality of its products. Their formulas have been approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that the product is safe and effective.  

Jarrow Formulas´ theanine supplement contains L-theanine that boosts the body’s stress response by influencing neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine[6]. Their supplement contains 200 mg of L-theanine, promoting alpha wave generation for moderate relaxation.

Theanine protects the brain by reducing glutamate toxicity[7]. It also promotes a good mood, even in stressful conditions or when stress levels are higher than usual. For better results, take one veggie capsule per day on an empty stomach with juice or water or as prescribed by your trained healthcare provider. This formula is ideal for vegetarians and vegans.

People with generalized anxiety disorder frequently use this supplement to alleviate anxiety without the severe adverse effects that prescription medicines might produce. It relaxes the mind and body, making dealing with stress and anxiety easier without causing brain fog or intoxication.

Specifications:

• Ingredients: 
  • L-Theanine (200 mg)
  • Vegetarian Capsule (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, water)
  • Cellulose
  • Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source)
  • Silicon Dioxide
• Product Dimensions: 6x5x4 inches
• Item weight: 1.41 Ounces
• Item Form: Capsule
• Unit count: 60 Veggie Caps
• Diet Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Vegan

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3. Nutricost L-Theanine 

Nutricost L-Theanine is a top choice because of its consistently excellent quality for a fraction of the price of other top L-theanine supplements on the market. Each dose contains 200 mg of L-theanine, a neurotransmitter that calms nervous system activity and is chemically related to GABA.

Theanine supplementation appears to promote alpha-1 wave generation by crossing the blood-brain barrier[1]. This increases relaxation and concentration. Nutricost also aids in promoting restful sleep by calming nervous system activity and preventing ruminative thinking. 

With over a hundred 5-star ratings, it’s easy to understand why consumers select Nutricost L-theanine as a non-addictive method to treat anxiety, enhance mood and relax. The supplement is made out of rice flour and a gelatin capsule with no extra active components. It’s a pure and straightforward alternative suited for people who are gluten-free. 

Specifications:

• Ingredients: 
  • L-Theanine (200 mg)
  • Capsule (gelatin)
  • Rice Flour
  • Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source)
  • Microcrystalline Cellulose
  • Silicon Dioxide
• Count per bottle: 120 Capsules
• Package Dimensions: ‎4.33 x 2.32 x 2.32 inches; 2.89 Ounces
• Item Form: Capsule
• Material Feature: GMO-Free, Gluten-Free

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4. Nature’s Trove L-Theanine

Nature’s Trove is a great place to start if you’re looking to relieve minor anxiety and fatigue. It has a lot to offer as far as healthful, easy-to-digest L-theanine capsules are concerned. 

The supplement is derived naturally from green tea leaves. Nature’s Trove L-theanine capsules take about 20 minutes to diffuse into the bloodstream, whereas the powder takes just 5. 

All you have to do is open the capsule and pour the powder into your drink. Nature’s Trove is also kosher-certified and uses plant-based veggie capsules.

Nature’s Trove L-theanine is high in antioxidants known as catechins. These catechins lead the charge against free radicals. Moreover, they’re also crucial in avoiding muscle tiredness after exercise. Even though it has a relaxing effect, it does not make you sleepy. 

Specifications:

• Ingredients: 
  • L-Theanine (200 mg)
  • Vegetable Capsule (Cellulose)
  • Microcrystalline Cellulose
  • Silicon Dioxide
  • Vegetable Magnesium Stearate
• Item Form: Capsule
• Package Dimensions: ‎5.31 x 2.87 x 2.83 inches; 5.61 Ounces
• Unit count: 365 Capsules
• Flavor: Green Tea
• Material Feature: Vegetarian, Kosher Certified

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5. Now Supplements L-Theanine

NOW is one of the most well-known and trusted supplement brands in the industry with a long and distinguished history. Their dedication to quality and sustainability ensures that you can always count on them to deliver a high-quality product.  

Each capsule in NOW contains 200 mg of L-theanine as well as 100mg of inositol, a vitamin-like compound found in citrus fruits, whole grains, and beans. It’s a B-Vitamin necessary for brain health and the neurological system. Inositol and L-theanine operate together to generate a calm, peaceful mind and improve cognitive function. Inositol aids in the reduction of anxiety, making it an ideal element to combine with L-theanine. 

This product is a high-quality theanine supplement that’s easy to use, effective, and reasonably priced. It’s also a vegetarian and vegan theanine pill. It does, however, have two fillers: magnesium stearate and silica. Fortunately, these are non-toxic and are used in high-end supplements as well.

Specifications:

• Ingredients: 
  • L-Theanine (200 mg)
  • Inositol (100 mg)
  • Vegetable Polysaccharide (capsule)
  • Silica and Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source)
• Item Form: Capsule
• Product Dimensions: ‎2.63 x 2.63 x 4.75 inches; 2.82 Ounces
• Unit Count: 120 Count
• Flavor: Unflavored
• Material Feature: Vegan

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6. Bulk Supplements L-Theanine Powder

Bulk Supplements powder has five times the suggested quantity, which helps people suffering from severe anxiety or mood disruptions. Its balancing function within the emotional epicenter of the brain may also help with PTSD symptoms. Each bag contains pure L-theanine powder, making it the most flexible and cost-effective supplement.

L-theanine is an antioxidant that helps neurons grow and thrive. When consumed as a stress supplement, L-theanine helps the body maintain optimum levels of serotonin and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), providing stress relief and relaxation without sleepiness[4].

Bulk Supplements L-theanine provides several health advantages including increased sleep, cognitive function, heart health, and immunity. Moreover, the powder mixes with most beverages, allowing you to tailor a health regimen to your specific needs. 

Specifications:

• Ingredients: L-Theanine (500 mg)
• Item Form: Powder
• Product Dimensions: 5 x 1.5 x 7.2 inches; 0.81 Ounces
• Flavor: Unflavored
• Material Feature: Dairy, Soy, Yeast, and Gluten-Free, No Added Sugar & Additives

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Endnote  

L-theanine is excellent for nootropics, relaxation, brain health, and moderating stress levels. It’s a popular and accessible solution for many types of people due to its broad spectrum of physical and mental benefits. 

Here’s a quick summary of our recommended products and their features:

• If you’re looking for a natural L-theanine supplement to boost brain function, gentle relaxation, and overcome anxiety, go for Sports Research L-theanine or Jarrow Formulas Theanine.  
• If you’re seeking a cost-effective way to combat anxiety, reduce reflective thinking, and enjoy a good nap, Nutricost L-theanine is the way to go.
• Try Nature’s Troves L-theanine and Now Supplements L-theanine to improve cognitive functioning and promote relaxation.
• If you’re seeking the best L-theanine supplement to assist you in overcoming severe anxiety or mood swings, go for the Bulk Supplements L-theanine powder.

 

References

1. Anna C Nobre PhD , Anling Rao PhD and Gail N Owen PhD L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2008;17 (S1):167-168
2. Jackson Williams,Jane Kellett ,Paul Daniel Roach, Andrew McKune, Duane Mellor,Jackson Thomas and Nenad Naumovski l-Theanine as a Functional Food Additive: Its Role in Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Beverages 2016, 2(2), 13
3. Ba X. Hoang Sr., Graeme Shaw Sr. and Stephen A. Levine Sr. L-Theanine in cancer prevention and treatment.Fifth AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research, Nov 12-15, 2006
4. Shinsuke Hidese, Shintaro Ogawa, Miho Ota, Ikki Ishida, Zenta Yasukawa, Makoto Ozeki, and Hiroshi Kunugi Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial Nutrients. 2019 Oct; 11(10): 2362.
5. Anna C Nobre, Anling Rao, Gail N Owen L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:167-8.
6. Pradeep J Nathan, Kristy Lu, M Gray, C Oliver The neuropharmacology of L-theanine(N-ethyl-L-glutamine): a possible neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing agent J Herb Pharmacother. 2006;6(2):21-30
7. Mika Takeshima, Ikuko Miyazaki, Shinki Murakami, Taizo Kita, and Masato Asanuma l-Theanine protects against excess dopamine-induced neurotoxicity in the presence of astrocytes J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2016 Sep; 59(2): 93–99