THEANINE Boosts Mental Performance

Theanine, a calming substance found in tea, is known to reduce stress and enhance sleep, even when taken in a single dose. But a longer-term Japanese study found that when taken daily for four weeks, the supplement also enhanced mental performance.

Published in the journal Nutrients, the study compared the effects of a placebo and 200 mg daily of theanine in a group of healthy people who had not been diagnosed with any psychiatric condition but were experiencing some difficulties with sleep and stress. After taking the supplement at bedtime for four weeks, those in the study fell asleep faster, stayed asleep longer, felt less anxious, and experienced a better mood. In addition, tests showed improved mental performance.

The supplement tested in this study, Suntheanine, is a patented form of theanine that can be found as an ingredient in many supplement brands. It’s usually taken during the day to relieve stress and enhance attention span, and before bedtime to improve sleep without causing morning drowsiness.

The theanine content of green tea ranges from 8mg to 30mg per cup. White, oolong, and black teas contain smaller amounts.