rct
    2021

    Effects of l-Theanine on Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study

    Baba Y, Inagaki S, Nakagawa S, Kaneko T, Kobayashi M, Takihara T

    Published in Journal of Medicinal Food

    Methodology

    Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of a single dose and 12 weeks of L-theanine 100.6 mg/day in middle-aged and older adults, with cognitive testing.

    Key Findings

    A single dose of L-theanine improved reaction time and working memory on attention tasks, while 12-week administration produced improvement in verbal fluency mainly in participants with lower baseline scores.

    Conclusions

    L-theanine shows acute attention benefits and limited chronic cognitive effects in older adults.

    Limitations

    Manufacturer-funded; modest sample; chronic benefits limited to subgroup analyses.

    Supplements Studied

    L-Theanine
    Amino Acid

    A single dose of L-theanine improved reaction time and working memory on attention tasks.

    Outcomes Measured

    A single dose of L-theanine improved reaction time and working memory.

    A single dose of L-theanine improved reaction time and working memory on attention tasks, while 12-week administration produced improvement in verbal fluency mainly in participants with lower baseline scores.

    A single dose of L-theanine improved reaction time and working memory on attention tasks, while 12-week administration produced improvement in verbal fluency mainly in participants with lower baseline scores.

    Related Health Concerns

    Study Details

    Year:2021
    Duration:12 weeks
    Quality Score:6/10

    Disclosures

    Funding

    Ito En Ltd. (tea manufacturer)

    This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.