Taiyo's patented pure form of L-theanine, Suntheanine, may help people to feel sharper and more positive. A new study describes how Suntheanine may improve cognitive function and reduce stress-related symptoms in healthy adults.
"The 30 study participants were mostly middle-aged. So, they represented average, working adults in the middle of their careers, who are likely dealing with common stressors such as work/life balance," said Taiyo functional ingredient technology expert, Derek Timm. "It is exciting to see the benefits of a standard 200 mg daily dose of Suntheanine in this chronically stressed population. This broad target audience gives formulators even more reason to incorporate Suntheanine into their finished products."
The randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover study published in Nutrients took place over an eight-week period: four weeks with Suntheanine, four weeks with the placebo. "Each person was their own control which gave a more accurate depiction of the results," says Timm.
Using standardised measures, study participants reported a significant decrease in anxiety and self-rated depression during the period when they were taking Suntheanine. The same benefits were not reported while the participants were taking a placebo.
Each person was their own control which gave a more accurate depiction of the results
And since we're a chronically sleep-deprived society, it is valuable to note that Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores for sleep latency (the time it takes people to fall asleep) and sleep disturbance (the ability to stay asleep) were improved while the participants took Suntheanine, compared with placebo administration. In addition, during the Suntheanine period subjects took less sleep aid medications indicating they were better able to enjoy a natural night of sleep.
Researchers also measured cognitive functions in these healthy adults and noted differences in the Suntheanine group between pre and post treatment in the following:
- Executive function: Mental processes that help us manage life tasks such as organisation and mental flexibility
- Verbal fluency: The ability to retrieve words and names from our memory bank
- Letter fluency: The ability to come up with as many words as possible starting with a given letter within a limited amount of time
Timm concluded: "Not only is this one of the first studies to look at how Suntheanine effects stress in a healthy population, it also uses science to confirm the experiential anecdotes we've heard over the years. We know that Suntheanine stimulates activity in the brain known as alpha waves, which are associated with a relaxed but alert mental state. It is quite likely that this calming alpha wave action is what leads to these improvements."
Produced using a patented process, GRAS-affirmed, and backed by more than 60 brand-specific clinical studies, which have been ongoing since 1994, Suntheanine promotes calming and relaxation without causing drowsiness. It also helps promote focus and concentration. Suntheanine works synergistically with caffeine and can also minimise the negative impact of caffeine such as jitters or dizziness.
Suntheanine is also Non-GMO Project Verified, and Kosher and Halal certified. Taiyo maintains full control over ingredient production, regulatory compliance and claims substantiation.