Who should not use L-theanine?

Who Should Not Use L-Theanine?
L-theanine, an amino acid primarily found in tea leaves, has garnered attention for its potential benefits in reducing anxiety, improving sleep quality, and enhancing cognitive function. However, while many may find it beneficial, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid its use altogether.
Individuals on Blood Pressure Medications
One significant group that should refrain from using L-theanine includes those taking medications that lower blood pressure. The amino acid has been shown to potentially lower blood pressure further, which could lead to hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). For individuals already managing their blood pressure with medication, the combination could pose serious health risks, necessitating close monitoring.
People with Sedative Use
Another group to be wary of L-theanine includes individuals who are on sedative medications. L-theanine may enhance the sedative effects of these drugs, leading to increased sleepiness and potentially dangerous respiratory depression. This interaction could be particularly concerning for those who require alertness for daily activities or operate machinery.
Pregnant and Nursing Women
Pregnant and nursing women should also approach L-theanine with caution. While there is limited research on the effects of L-theanine during pregnancy and lactation, the lack of comprehensive studies means that potential risks remain unclear. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult healthcare professionals before considering L-theanine supplementation.
Individuals with Certain Mental Health Conditions
While some studies suggest that L-theanine may help alleviate anxiety and improve symptoms in individuals with conditions like schizophrenia, it is essential for those with severe mental health disorders to consult their healthcare providers before using L-theanine. The effects of L-theanine can vary significantly among individuals, and it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with complex psychiatric conditions.
Allergic Reactions
Lastly, individuals with known allergies to tea or related compounds should avoid L-theanine. As it is derived from tea leaves, those with sensitivities may experience allergic reactions, which can range from mild to severe.
Conclusion
While L-theanine offers various potential benefits, it is not universally safe for everyone. Individuals on blood pressure medications, those using sedatives, pregnant or nursing women, individuals with certain mental health conditions, and those with allergies to tea should approach its use with caution. Consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended to ensure safety and appropriateness of supplementation.

Does theanine affect kidneys?

Research on L-theanine being safe for kidneys is limited. A small study showed that high-doses of L-theanine reduced kidney and liver damage from sepsis.

What are the negative side effects of L-theanine?

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. Please see monograph on Green Tea.

Does L-theanine affect blood pressure?

Blood pressure management
L-theanine may be beneficial for those who experience increased blood pressure in stressful situations. One study found that people who usually experienced higher blood pressure after specific mental tasks found that L-theanine helped reduce an increase in blood pressure.

What medications should not be taken with L-theanine?

L-theanine may interact with the following drugs and supplements:

• drugs for the treatment of high blood pressure.
• other supplements that lower blood pressure.
• stimulants, such as those that doctors use to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• supplements that contain caffeine.

What happens if you take L-theanine everyday?

When taken by mouth: L-theanine is possibly safe when used short-term. Doses of up to 900 mg daily have been safely used for 8 weeks. It isn’t clear if L-theanine is safe to use for longer periods of time. It might cause mild side effects, such as headache or sleepiness.

Can L-theanine cause brain fog?

L-theanine is not typically associated with causing brain fog. In fact, it may help improve mental clarity and focus by promoting a state of relaxed alertness.

Which is better for sleep, magnesium or L-theanine?

Key Takeaways. Magnesium and L-theanine are often recommended for sleep and stress relief, but there isn’t enough data to prove their combination works for everyone. Research shows magnesium may reduce anxiety, stress, and sleep, while L-theanine may aid relaxation but could also increase focus for some people.

Is L-theanine safe for heart?

L-theanine increases the activities and expression of antioxidant enzymes. L-theanine increases the expression of Nrf2 and PPARα to protect the heart.

What does L-theanine do to your brain?

Research shows that L-theanine supplements can elevate your levels of GABA, dopamine and serotonin, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety levels. A randomized trial from 2019 found that healthy adults who took L-theanine over the course of four weeks had a decrease in stress-related symptoms.

Is L-theanine hard on your liver?

L- Theanine prevents alcoholic liver injury through enhancing the antioxidant capability of hepatocytes.