L-Theanine and ADHD: What the Science Says
Many people know exactly why they’re feeling scattered, unfocused, and foggy. Maybe they stayed up a little too late, had one too many drinks, or ate one too many sweets. Whatever the case, many people have a reason for why they’re struggling.
But what about those who feel that way every day? When difficulty focusing becomes chronic, it could be a sign of something deeper — something like ADHD. Luckily, there are a few natural ways you can support focus even with ADHD. Read on to learn more about ADHD, whether L-theanine can support focus, and how else you can support focus.
What Is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is more than just forgetting where you put your keys. This is a psychiatric condition that can affect almost every area of life. In fact, ADHD is classified as an ADA-protected disability because of how wide its effects can be.
Doctors and scientists aren’t quite sure what causes ADHD. Right now, all we know is that there seems to be a genetic component and that it could also involve brain chemistry and structure.
If you think you might have ADHD, it’s best to see a doctor or psychiatrist. These healthcare professionals can evaluate your symptoms and have the power to diagnose and treat this condition.
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
There are three main types of ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive/impulsive type, and combined type. Each has its own set of symptoms.
Inattentive type ADHD is often characterized by the following symptoms:
- Trouble paying attention
- Difficulty focusing
- Disorganization
- Easily distracted
- Forgetful
- Often loses items
Meanwhile, hyperactive type ADHD is often diagnosed based on the following symptoms:
- Frequent fidgeting
- Unable to relax quietly
- Talking “too much”
- Finishing other people’s sentences
- Trouble waiting turns
- Interrupting others
ADHD isn’t diagnosed based on one or two symptoms. Instead, you must have five to six of these symptoms and they must be part of your everyday life.
Many people belong to one category or the other. However, some people have both sets of symptoms. These people have combined type ADHD.
How Is ADHD Treated?
ADHD is often treated with a combination of medications and therapy. Certain types of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can help patients find coping mechanisms to still their minds and function similarly to those without ADHD. Therapy can also help people with ADHD address the emotional aspects that come along with the disorder.
As far as medications go, most medications used to treat ADHD are psychostimulants. These medications work by increasing neurotransmitters related to focus. Stimulants can be effective in treating ADHD, but they can also have side effects that some people may be uncomfortable with.
Can L-Theanine Support Focus?
L-theanine is an amino acid that can naturally be found in black and green tea. Not everyone enjoys tea, though, so L-theanine is also offered as a supplement for those who would still like to experience the benefits.
This amino acid can support focus in a few ways. First, it can actually encourage concentration and mental clarity. Second, it can help you feel less stressed, which can affect concentration. Finally, it can also support a good night’s sleep, which can help you feel more focused the next day.
One study analyzed 69 healthy older and middle-aged subjects. After being given a single dose of 100 mg of L-theanine, the subjects demonstrated a quicker reaction time and more correct answers.
One smaller study looked at 18 healthy college students. Among the more anxious students, scientists saw lower heart rates, increased alpha brain wave activity (which is associated with relaxation and concentration), greater visual attention, and improved reaction time in the students who took L-theanine.
Still another study examined 30 healthy adults who were given 200 mg of L-theanine. These adults reported better sleep quality, improved executive function, and improved mental health overall.
We’d like to note here that while there is evidence to show that L-theanine can help support focus, it is not a treatment for ADHD. If you’d like to try L-theanine for focus, talk to your doctor to make sure it won’t interact with any of your ADHD medication.
How To Take L-Theanine for Focus
If you want to try L-theanine for yourself, you’re in luck. You don’t have to drink five cups of tea every day to experience the benefits — nowadays, all you need is a conveniently packaged L-theanine supplement.
Like many supplements, L-theanine generally works better when you take it regularly and consistently. Pick a time when you know you’ll remember to take your supplements and choose a supplement that is convenient and easy to take.
We personally love our Mushroom Coffee+ for exactly this reason. All you need to prepare our supplement powder is to combine it with hot water and give it a stir. Even better, it tastes just like coffee because it is coffee.
Each serving of our mushroom coffee features 2,275 mg of our nootropics blend, which features L-theanine, lion’s mane mushroom, chaga mushroom, and coffee bean extract. It also includes 4 grams of collagen protein to help support gut health.
The Bottom Line
ADHD is a psychiatric condition that involves either inattentive symptoms, hyperactive symptoms, or a combination of the two. This condition is treated with medication and therapy, but some people choose to also try more natural ways to support focus.
L-theanine is an amino acid that can encourage focus, balanced mental health, cognitive ability, and high-quality sleep. To learn more about this ingredient and the others we use in our mushroom blends, visit the Everyday Dose blog today.
Sources:
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - Causes | NHS
What is ADHD? | Psychiatry.org
What medications are used to treat ADHD? | NIH MedlinePlus Magazine
Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response | ScienceDirect
