Protein - Theanine

Question 1

Theanine

Answer 1

• Theanine is not one of the 20 amino acids needed for body structure, but has various beneficial effects. It is non-essential.

Question 2

Green Tea

Answer 2

• It is the amino acid found uniquely in green tea. Theanine is believed to give green tea its slight umami flavour and helps to counteract the bitterness of green (and black) tea.
• Theanine reduces the negative effects of caffeine naturally in green tea by having opposing effects (relaxing rather than stimulating).
• The theanine content in green tea is one of the reasons the beverage is considered therapeutic in Ayurvedic medicine, due to its balancing effects especially for those who are restless / anxious.

Question 3

Functions: Neurological (calming)

Answer 3

Functions:
* After ingestion, theanine crosses the blood brain barrier and blocks glutamate receptors, whilst increasing GABA activity. GABA is inhibitory / calming.
* Increases alpha-brain waves producing a calming, mood-enhancing effect without drowsiness.
* Has been shown to increase serotonin and dopamine levels.
Therapeutic Uses:
* Studying / increasing concentration.
* Anxiety / agitation (including that associated with PMS)
* Stress
* Insomnia
* Low mood
* Hypertension

Question 4

Supplementation: Dose

Answer 4

• Therapeutic doses are generally between 50mg-200mg, so green tea isn’t necessarily a practical source.
• It is estimated that the quantity of green tea consumed by the average Japanese tea drinker per day = about 20mg theanine.
• It is also worth adding that some of the theanine in green tea will be used by the body to offset the effects of caffeine that naturally occurs in the tea.

Question 5

Drug Interactions:

Answer 5

Theanine can lower blood pressure, so avoid using alongside anti-hypertensives or it may fall too low.

Question 6

Adverse effects:

Answer 6

Theanine may cause mild adverse effects, such as headache or sleepiness.