L-Theanine: Is it Good for ADHD?

As a both a behavioral health professional and vocal neurodiversity advocate, with a personal and professional understanding of ADHD, people often ask me questions about different supplements and their potential benefits for managing symptoms.  In my social media groups, one of the most common inquiries is about L-theanine, which is an amino acid found in green tea.

What is L-theanine?

L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid found primarily in green tea. It's known for its calming and relaxing properties and has been linked to several health benefits, including improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety & cognitive enhancement.

L-theanine for ADHD: What does the research say?

The research on L-theanine's effectiveness for ADHD is currently limited and inconclusive! While some studies have shown promising results, they often involve small sample sizes and lack long-term data.

Here's a summary of the research:

• Combined with caffeine: Some studies suggest that combining L-theanine with caffeine may improve attention and focus in children with ADHD. The calming effects of L-theanine may moderate the jittery side effects sometimes associated with caffeine alone.
• Limited individual effect: Studies focusing solely on L-theanine haven't shown significant benefits for ADHD symptoms.

Important considerations:

• Talk to your doctor first: Before introducing any new supplement, including L-theanine, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare professional, especially if you are already taking medication for ADHD. They can advise on potential interactions, dosage, and potential benefits based on your individual health history.
• Not a replacement for evidence-based treatment: L-theanine, or any other supplement for that matter, should not be considered a replacement for established, evidence-based ADHD treatment plans. Treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, in consultation with a healthcare professional, remain the first line of defense in managing ADHD.



The takeaway:

While the research on L-theanine and ADHD is ongoing, there's currently insufficient evidence to conclusively recommend it as a standalone treatment. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary, and some individuals may find L-theanine helpful when used along with their existing ADHD treatment plan.

If you're considering trying L-theanine, remember to approach it with caution, consult your healthcare professional, and maintain open communication about your experiences.

Additional resources:

• National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
• CHADD: https://chadd.org/
• Attention Deficit Disorder Association: https://add.org/