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What is a Theanine Supplement?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Theanine supplements are pills, capsules, liquids, tinctures, or teas that contain a substance called theanine. Theanine is an amino acid that is found in significant quantities in green tea. It is said to add a desirable flavor to green tea and also offer a range of health benefits. Many people supplement with the amino acid to take advantage of these health benefits, which include everything from stress reduction to disease fighting.

One of the main reasons a person may use a theanine supplement is for its stress-reduction ability. The amino acid is said to reduce anxiety and help to produce a feeling of calm and relaxation. While there are other substances that may have the same effect, many of them are known to cause drowsiness. A theanine supplement, however, doesn’t usually have this effect.

Some people may experience improved brain function while taking a theanine supplement. For example, the supplement may help to improve a person’s concentration. It may even give a boost to his problem-solving skills.

Woman posing
Woman posing

Most people can take a theanine supplement without fear of side effects. This substance is usually very well tolerated, and it has no known side effects. An individual who is planning to take it, however, may do well to consult his doctor beforehand and report any problems he has with taking it. Although taking a theanine supplement is unlikely to cause side effects, each person may react to it differently. Additionally, it is possible that some people will develop allergic reactions to the supplement.

Sometimes a person uses a theanine supplement to boost his immune system. It may help to improve overall health and boost the immune system’s ability to fight off disease. In fact, some studies have shown that theanine supplements may be helpful for those with high blood pressure and cancer. It may also prove helpful for those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. An individual may even take a theanine supplement to help control premenstrual syndrome.

If a woman is pregnant or nursing a baby, she may do well to consult with her doctor before taking a theanine supplement. While there are no known problems with theanine supplementation during pregnancy, the supplement hasn't been thoroughly studied in women who are expecting or nursing children. Additionally, it may not be the best supplement for a person who has impaired liver or kidney function. Both organs are important in processing excess theanine. Kidney or liver conditions may interfere with this or overtax these organs.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

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