L-Theanine Reduces Stress and Improves Cognitive Function in Healthy Adults
Does L-Theanine Actually Reduce Stress and Improve Cognitive Function?
L-theanine supplementation significantly reduces stress-related symptoms and improves cognitive performance in healthy adults, this randomized controlled trial demonstrates. Participants taking 200mg of L-theanine daily for 4 weeks showed substantial reductions in stress and anxiety scores, improved sleep quality, and enhanced cognitive function including better attention, working memory, and executive function. The amino acid, naturally found in tea leaves, appears to work by modulating neurotransmitter activity, particularly increasing GABA and reducing excessive glutamate activity, while also influencing alpha brain wave patterns associated with relaxed alertness. Unlike many anxiolytic compounds, L-theanine provides calming effects without sedation or cognitive impairment.