Does L-Theanine Help Sleep?

Struggling to catch the ZZZs you deserve? You aren’t alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says one in three people report having trouble getting a good night’s rest when they hit the hay. 

With so many people sharing this same struggle, more and more are turning to L-theanine for support. L-theanine is an amino acid found naturally in tea that can be also taken as a supplement. 

Does it work? L-theanine might not solve all your sleep woes, but it can still be a helpful approach to use for those restless nights. Although L-theanine is best known for its relaxing effects, some may experience side effects such as vivid L-theanine bad dreams, dizziness, or headaches.

Benefits of L-theanine

Here are a few of the potential benefits that come from drinking a cup of tea or taking an L-theanine supplement before bed:

• Better brain focus and performance
• Deeper sleep
• Improved relaxation
• Immune system boost

How to Use L-theanine

For better sleep, many people drink a cup of tea before bed to reap the best benefits of L-theanine. If you’re considering adding L-theanine to your nightly bedtime routine, you’re probably wondering how long L-theanine lasts. The answer depends on the person–some people report its effects lasting only for a few hours, while others say they felt its support for as long as eight to ten hours. 

Is L-theanine safe to use? The Federal Drug Administration says it is ‘generally safe to use’ but also states that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use the supplement. Before you decide to incorporate it into your routine, it may be a good idea to discuss L-theanine with your healthcare provider. 

Recent Study Results

A recent study showed people who took about 450 milligrams of L-theanine daily for eight weeks felt more satisfied with their sleep. Those who have anxiety or are on antidepressants didn’t see as much improvement but reported overall better sleep. However, it’s important to note that the study also showed there weren’t any improvements in anxiety or insomnia levels.

While the supplement may not unlock the door to the ultimate superpower of sleep, it can be a great sidekick. When combined with a healthy sleep and exercise routine, L-theanine may have quite a positive impact on your rest.

Find the Right Solution for You

While L-theanine can be a great help, it’s not a magic cure. At Optimal Circadian Health, we feel the best sleep comes from addressing the larger problems at hand and working with your metabolism.

This means focusing on overall wellbeing and giving your mitochondria (the tiny powerhouses in your cells) some extra love and attention. By eating right and exercising regularly, you set yourself up for not just a good night’s sleep but also for a more energized and balanced life. Want to learn more? Pick up a copy of Sleep Apnea Solution: A Natural Way to Sleep CPAP-Free and explore the resources offered by Optimal Circadian Health today!