How Much L-Theanine is in Green Tea?
Green tea is one of the world’s most-consumed beverages and is packed with beneficial substances, such as caffeine and an amino acid called L-theanine. In recent years, people have been interested in learning the exact amount of L-theanine in green tea, as it’s said to have some health benefits, such as reducing stress, increasing brain alertness, and encouraging relaxation.
How Much L-Theanine is Present?
The amount of L-theanine present in green tea can vary due to various factors, such as how the tea was made and how long it was brewed for. Based on research carried out on different types of green tea, it is estimated that 1 cup (240ml) of matcha powder – a more potent form of Japanese green tea – has around 78mg of L-theanine.
It is recommended that an adult should consume between 400 and 2000 mg of L-theanine daily. Therefore, with just one cup of green tea, an adult won’t get close to the desired daily intake of L-theanine.
Health Benefits of L-Theanine
- Reduction of anxiety: Studies have suggested that L-theanine is capable of reducing anxiety symptoms and increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters which play a major role in regulating a person’s mood.
- Improved cognition: Research has also implied that L-theanine can lead to a better understanding of concepts, improved reaction time and improved memory.
- Reduced stress levels: It is said that L-theanine can help relax and calm the mind, leading to reductions in stress.
Although the exact amount of this amino acid present in the cup of tea may vary, the health benefits of it are plenty. Therefore, it is recommended to get your daily allowance of L-theanine through supplements, as it can be difficult to get your required intake only with green tea.
