L-theanine is common ingredients found in many of todays commercial weight loss supplements and diet pills.
This amino acid is a natural stress reliever and mood enhancer. It also helps to improve mental alertness, concentration and focus.
L-Theanine can also help suppress appetite by increasing levels of serotonin which reduces desire for food intake while promoting a positive mood. By promoting a feeling of satiety, it can help reduce caloric intake and promote weight loss.
L-Theanine is also known to increase the body’s rate of thermogenesis which is the production of heat by the body. This increased metabolic rate can lead to an increase in calorie burn and moreover promote weight loss.
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What is L-theanine?
L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea leaves and other caffeine-free teas, which has been shown to provide weight loss benefits.
A study published by researchers from The University of Mississippi Medical Center reported that participants who took 200 milligrams (mg) of L-theanine daily for six weeks (in addition to dieting) lost more weight and experienced a greater drop in their body mass index, hip circumference and waist circumference than participants who did not take the amino acid. [source]
Other Names
- L–Theanine
- Suntheanin
- Vitamin U
- Theaflavins 90%
- Boitin
- N-ethylmaleimide
How Does L-theanine Help Weight Loss?
The weight loss benefits of L-theanine are likely the result of several mechanisms, including its ability to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a feeling of relaxation.
Studies show that individuals who have higher levels of stress tend to consume more food than people with lower levels.
This is because eating can be an effective way for stressed out people to cope with their emotions. L-theanine may help promote weight loss by reducing stress and anxiety levels, which can lead to less emotional eating.
Another mechanism that might contribute to L-theanine’s ability to support healthy body weight is its potential role as a fat burner.
A study found that mice fed high doses of the compound experienced an increase in metabolic rate and fat oxidation.
While this study was conducted in animals, it provides some evidence that the amino acid might promote weight loss by increasing levels of fat burning while decreasing appetite.
It is also thought to possess antioxidant properties. This supplement ingredient has been shown to reduce markers of oxidative stress which can increase risk for several chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseas , and type II diabetes. Some research also suggests that L-theanine can support healthy cholesterol levels as well as insulin sensitivity which is important for proper weight management.
Other Benefits
The benefits extend beyond weight loss and include several cognitive, mood and cardiovascular support.
This supplement ingredient has been shown to reduce cortisol levels which is a stress hormone that can contribute to the storage of belly fat.
L-Theanine may also promote healthy blood pressure levels as well as brain health by increasing alpha waves in the brain. Alpha waves are associated with a relaxed, yet alert state of mind.
In addition to the weight loss benefits of L-theanine, this amino acid can also promote heart health.
A study showed that participants who supplemented with L-theanine for 12 weeks had lower levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (LDL) as well as increased levels of good cholesterol (HDL).
Another study found that daily supplementation with 200mg of L-theanine for 12 weeks was associated with reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Finally, research also indicates that this supplement ingredient can promote focus and concentration which is important to support healthy weight management efforts.
How Can I Take L-theanine for Weight Loss?
You can find l-theanine supplements online or at your local health food store. Be sure to look for a supplement that is standardized to contain 50-100% pure l-theanine and that does not contain caffeine or other stimulants.
When taking l-theanine for weight loss, it is recommended to take 200 mg per day. You can either take this all at once or divide it into two doses.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider before taking.
What If I Take too Much L-theanine?
Currently there is not enough research to know what effects taking too much might have. If you take more than the recommended amount on a daily basis, speak with your doctor about any potential negative side effects of this supplement ingredient.
Does L-theanine Cause Side Effects?
L-theanine is a safe and natural supplement that does not cause side effects in most people. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as headache, dizziness or gastrointestinal problems. If you experience any adverse effects after taking, discontinue use and speak with your doctor.
What are Some Weight Loss Pills that Contain L-theanine?
There are a few weight loss supplements on the market that contain l-theanine. Some popular brands include Hydroxycut Hardcore Elite, Applied Nutrition’s RippedFuel EXTREME and BSN’s Hyper Drive. It is also found in the following fat burners
However, before taking any supplement, be sure to read the ingredients list to make sure it contains only pure l-theanine and does not contain any stimulants.
Summary
L-theanine is a safe and natural supplement that has been shown to promote weight loss by increasing fat burning while decreasing appetite.
It also possesses several other health benefits such as reducing stress levels, supporting heart health and promoting focus and concentration.
When taking l-theanine for weight loss, it is recommended to take 200 mg per day. However, if you take more than the recommended amount on a daily basis, speak with your doctor about any potential negative side effects of this supplement ingredient.
L-theanine is found in many diet pills and helps to suppress appetite as well as giving you energy for exercise which will speed up weight loss.
This amino acid has been shown to be safe and has no negative side effects. When looking for a diet pill make sure it contains l-theanine as an ingredient.
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