By Lydia Wallie, Nutrition Director

This nutrient is rarely found in nature and it’s mainly found in teas. The nutrient is l-theanine. It’s said to have the following benefits:

• Neuroprotective qualities (1)

• Increases important brain neurotransmitters (2)

• Increases brain chemicals (BDNF, NGF) that promote the growth of brain cells and neurons (3, 4)

• Supports mental resilience through anti-stress effects (5) 

• Supports both relaxation and focus at the same time (6) 

• Promotes good quality sleep (7)

Drink a cup of black, white, oolong, or green tea a few times a week and see what difference you notice. (8) My favorite option is matcha.

Sources:

(1) PMID: 21477654

(2) PMID: 17182482

(3) PMID: 21861094

(4) PMID: 17904164

(5) PMID: 16930802

(6) PMID: 18296328

(7) PMID: 25759004

(8) PMID: 27019564