L-theanine and other benefits of Matcha

Ever wondered why matcha makes you feel so focused, like you can conquer anything? It’s all thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid found primarily in matcha¹ that contributes to improved focus and attention, particularly when paired with caffeine.²

Neurotransmitter Effects: L-theanine is known to increase levels of several neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in mood regulation, relaxation, and attention.³

Alpha Waves: L-theanine promotes the generation of alpha brain waves. Alpha waves are associated with a state of wakeful relaxation and are known to enhance creativity, reduce anxiety, and promote mental clarity. This relaxed yet alert mental state is conducive to sustained focus and concentration.³

Caffeine Synergy: Matcha contains both L-theanine and caffeine. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine has been studied extensively for its synergistic effects on cognitive function. While caffeine alone can sometimes lead to jitteriness and anxiety, L-theanine helps to smooth out these effects. This combination is believed to improve attention, focus, and reaction times more effectively than either substance alone.³

Other than the delicious taste and sustained performance boost, some other reasons to try matcha includes:

Say Goodbye to Teeth Stains: Catechins in green tea, particularly in matcha, can help prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the adhesion of bacteria to teeth, thus potentially helping to keep those pearly whites, well, white!⁴

Fresh Breath, Naturally: Acidic compounds in coffee can contribute to coffee breath. Matcha, however, has a more alkaline pH, which can help neutralize acids in the mouth and promote fresher breath.⁵ Plus, the catechins in matcha possess natural antibacterial properties that may inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for causing bad breath and gum disease.⁶

A Shield Against Gum Diseases: The anti-inflammatory properties of catechins in matcha have been studied for their potential to reduce gum inflammation and fight bacteria that cause gum disease.⁷

Balancing Matcha and Coffee

Balancing matcha and coffee consumption can optimize their benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks such as caffeine-induced anxiety or disrupted sleep patterns. 

It is also important to note that both matcha and coffee can have a diuretic effect, potentially leading to dehydration. It's important to balance their consumption with adequate water intake throughout the day.

Sources

1. Nobre, Anna C., et al. "L-Theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state." Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 17.Suppl 1 (2008): 167-168.
2. Owen, Gail N., et al. "The combined effects of L-theanine and caffeine on cognitive performance and mood." Nutritional neuroscience 11.4 (2008): 193-198.
3. Giesbrecht, Timo, et al. "The combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves cognitive performance and increases subjective alertness." Nutritional Neuroscience 13.6 (2010): 283-290.
4. Sharma, Pratibha et al. “Evaluation of the effectiveness of green tea mouth rinse on oral halitosis, tongue coating, and plaque accumulation in comparison with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth rinse - A double-blind randomized control trial.” Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology vol. 27,3 (2023)
5. Hirasawa, M et al. “Inhibition of acid production in dental plaque bacteria by green tea catechins.” Caries research vol. 40,3 (2006)
6. Bansal, Sumit et al. “Tea: A native source of antimicrobial agents.” Food Research International (Ottawa, Ont.) vol. 53,2 (2013)
7. Chatterjee, Anirban et al. “Green tea: A boon for periodontal and general health.” Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology vol. 16,2 (2012).