L-theanine: A Dose Of Calm In Every Cup Of Bigelow Black Teas and Green Teas
If you enjoy drinking green and black tea, and Bigelow Tea family, we know you do, then you are also taking in the benefits of L-theanine, Let’s dive in to learn more.
Where To Find L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid that is found naturally in camellia sinensis tea leaves which means that either a cup of black or green tea you drink will contain some amount. If you want to increase your intake, however, some teas are richer in L-theanine than others. For example, green teas are higher in l-theanine overall. When making matcha powder, made from ground-up green tea leaves, the l-theanine is more concentrated. Our Bigelow Benefits Refresh Turmeric Chili Matcha Green tea contains Matcha powder and green tea for a theanine boost.
How L-Theanine Works
Now that you know where to find L-theanine, let’s talk about how it affects your body. As mentioned, L-theanine is an amino acid. An amino acid is what is left once the the body digests proteins, and they help the body grow, repair body tissue and are a source of energy to name only a few of its functions. A 2020 study suggests that the L-theanine found in tea leaves has a calming effect on the body which helps to reduce anxiety and stress symptoms. More specifically in a 2021 study L-theanine was shown to improve brain functions by:
- Boosting mood
- Supporting normal sleep
- Helping to manage stress disorders
In addition to its calming effects, research in that same study suggests that L-theanine may also improve cognitive performance and protect against age-related cognitive decline. It also cites studies reporting that the caffeine and L-theanine in green tea have synergistic effects on cognition and mood which allows for the same mental alertness one gets from the caffeine in coffee, for example, but without the jitters.
Next time you feel stressed or anxious, reach for a cup of Bigelow Tea’s line of black teas and green teas. The L-theanine each contain may help calm your nerves while sharpening your focus and concentration levels which is one more reason to enjoy another delicious cup.
Cheers to you and every cup of tea you enjoy!
