γ-Glutamylethylamine, also known as l-theanine, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are known agents for improving sleep disturbances (Khan et al. 2018).
Studies have shown (7) that the combination of L-theanine and GABA in supplement form is more beneficial for the quantity and quality of sleep than the individual ingredients alone. Specifically, the mixture can lead to decreases in sleep latency and increases in sleep duration.
L-theanine has been historically reported as a relaxing agent, prompting scientific research on its pharmacology. Animal neurochemistry studies suggest that L-theanine increases brain serotonin, dopamine, GABA levels and has micromolar affinities for AMPA, Kainate and NMDA receptors.
After taking advice from experts, the FDA classified L-theanine as “generally recognized as safe.” This classification means that they believe this additive to be safe when people use it as the packaging suggests. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use L-theanine.
Theanine /ˈθiːəniːn/, also known as L-γ-glutamylethylamide and N5-ethyl-L-glutamine, is an amino acid analogue of the proteinogenic amino acids L-glutamate and L-glutamine and is found primarily in particular plant and fungal species.
L-theanine and ashwagandha are quite complimentary in terms of their benefits, but the mechanisms of action are quite different. Ashwagandha works more on a hormonal level, especially with cortisol. L-theanine works more on the neurotransmitters.
L-theanine also increases GABA, serotonin, and dopamine levels, which all help to promote relaxation. Magnesium, on the other hand, is a nutrient regulates muscles and nerves, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.
The most common side effects of L-theanine dosage include headaches, nausea, and irritability. However, the nausea appears to be mostly linked with L-theanine being administered through green tea rather than dietary supplements.
Although there are no reported side effects from taking L-theanine, consuming large amounts of green tea can cause nausea, irritability, and GI upset because of the caffeine content.
That said, scientifically supported research has shown that between 100 to 200 milligrams of GABA are typically safe to consume approximately 30 minutes to an hour before bed. GABA can also be regarded as safe and appropriate for daily intake for those seeking improvement in the quality of their sleep.
Clinical studies suggest that taking up to 120 milligrams (mg) of GABA per day as supplements for 12 weeks is unlikely to cause adverse effects. People should take care when using them with other drugs.
Magnesium stimulates the activity of cerebral GABAergic systems by behaving as a modulator of GABA receptors, increasing their activity.
Context: γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter and it is well established that activation of GABAA receptors favours sleep. l-Theanine, a naturally occurring amino acid first discovered in green tea, is a well-known anti-anxiety supplement with proven relaxation benefits.
People who are using GABA to enhance the quality of their sleep are best to take a single, larger dose half an hour before bed. GABA is most effective on an empty stomach, so it is a good idea to wait an hour between eating food or drinking protein, and GABA supplementation.
GABA and Alcohol Do Not Mix.
In fact, explains Kramer, just one 200 to 400mg capsule can ease stress, lower your cortisol levels, and get you to a state of zen in 20 minutes. And, if you want, you can safely consume L-theanine every day.
l-theanine (γ-glutamylethylamide), an amino acid in green tea, has been shown to affect brain functions by relieving stress disorders, improving mood, and maintaining normal sleep.
The amino acid L-theanine is an effective treatment of moderate and severe anxiety and does not cause drowsiness.
You can take L-Theanine multiple times daily, including in the morning before work and at night before bed. Taking a daytime dose of L-Theanine may help you focus and maintain mental clarity as you go about your daily tasks. A nighttime dose, on the other hand, can help you wind down before getting ready for bed.
With that in mind, L-theanine seems to be particularly beneficial for combatting stress-related sleep issues. Melatonin, on the other hand, just flat out encourages sleep. This is what makes melatonin a generally more effective sleep supporter than L-theanine, or any other natural sleep aid.
Magnesium is a mineral that's important for your health. When a magnesium-containing medication or supplement is taken with gabapentin, it can lower gabapentin's effectiveness. It's recommended to take gabapentin at least 2 hours after taking magnesium.
Vitamin D3
Studies show that D3, “the sunshine vitamin”, can improve mood. Combined with L-theanine, you have the perfect duo to be healthy & happier. These nutrients work together harmoniously to improve positivity, help you sleep better & reduce stress.