What is the mechanism of L-Theanine ?
Although the complete mechanism of L-theanine is still under investigation, several studies have been completed showing the various stages of L-theanine metabolism: 1)L-theanine is absorbed from the small intestine via a sodium-coupled active transport process and crosses the blood-brain barrier, absorbed into the brain in a dose-dependent manner. 2)L-theanine may compete for absorption in the intestinal tract and the brain with amino acids found in the methionine group, including isoleucine, leucine and valine. The concentrations of other amino acids are unchanged by the administration of L-theanine. 3)L-theanine directly stimulates production of alpha brain waves (a state often achieved by meditation, one of deep relaxation and mental alertness). 4)L-theanine appears to have a role in the formation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter Gamma Amino Butyric Acid (GABA). GABA blocks release of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, playing a key role in the relaxation effect.
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