Authors: Tharaka L Dassanayake, Chanaka N Kahathuduwa, Vajira S Weerasinghe
Institutions: University of Peradeniya, The University of Newcastle, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Source: Nutritional Neuroscience, April 2022, Volume 25, Issue 4, Pages 698–708.
Objective: This study aimed to test whether L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea, could enhance selective attention in a dose-dependent manner, without any reported side effects.
Methods: In this study, 27 healthy adults were given either 100 mg, 200 mg, or 400 mg of L-theanine, or a placebo. The researchers then measured brain responses to an auditory task, looking at how quickly and strongly the brain reacted to the task.
Results: The group that took 400 mg showed quicker brain responses, suggesting better attention, compared to the placebo group. No improvements were seen with the lower doses. This suggests L-theanine may help with attention, and that higher doses might work better. Further research is needed.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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