What is it about?
This article reviews the positive effects of the green tea molecule theanine, on the brain. It increases the activity of alpha brain waves resulting in increased alertness and reduced anxiety. Recent research demonstrates its positive effects on anxiety, depression and cognitive function. There are also studies pointing to its benefits in schizophrenia and ADD. Other research shows that theanine reduces the risk of dementia in older people and protects against neurotoxicity.
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Why is it important?
This is the first review of the effects of theanine on the brain, and it adds to the existing body of research on the other main components of green tea--the catechins. It is also the first review to highlight the possible benefits of green tea on certain psychological, psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Neurobiological effects of the green tea constituent theanine and its potential role in the treatment of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, Nutritional Neuroscience, November 2013, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1179/1476830513y.0000000079.
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Resources
Health Benefis of Green Tea
Green tea cuts fatal illness risk
Report on a Japanese study of 40,000 people in north east Japan, where high amounts of green tea are consumed. Amonst other things, they found that compared with people who drank less than one cup per day of green tea, those who consumed five or more had a 16% lower risk of dying from any cause during the 11-year study.
Tea Health Benefits: 8 Ways It Could Benefit Our Bodies
Short article and accompanying video outlining current research on possible benefits of green tea in preventing a range of illnesses including Alzheimers.
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