Most of us love a little (or a lot) of caffeine, so it’s no surprise that caffeine’s popularity as a natural stimulant is unmatched. It’s found in over 60 plant species and enjoyed in every part of the world, especially in coffee, chocolate, and tea. The caffeine content in any drink varies depending on the ingredients and how the drink is prepared.
While caffeine is considered safe, drinking too much may pose some risks. This is especially true for those with preexisting conditions. This article compares the caffeine in teas and coffees and explores which drink you should choose and why.
Tea preparation
The preparation method greatly impacts the caffeine content of tea. Teas that steep for longer and in hotter water tend to produce a more potent cup. For example, a mug of Tazo Earl Grey contains 40 mg of caffeine after 1 minute of steeping in 6 ounces (177 ml) of water heated to 194–203°F (90–95°C). This amount rises to 59 mg after 3 minutes. For comparison, Stash Green Tea has 16 mg of caffeine after 1 minute of steeping under the same conditions. After 3 minutes of steeping, this more than doubles to 36 mg.
WHAT IS L-THEANINE?
L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves and certain types of mushrooms. It was discovered by Japanese scientists in Kyoto around 1949.
Research points to L-theanine being incredibly beneficial to those suffering from stress and anxiety.
This marvelous amino acid has also been found to increase relaxation without causing you to be drowsy or lower your heart rate.
L-theanine can accomplish this by boosting calming brain chemicals. In the brain, you have neurotransmitters. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, and dopamine, to name a few. They regulate a few key things:
- Emotions
- Moods
- Concentration
- Alertness
- Sleep Quality
- Appetite
- Energy
Levels of these brain chemicals that are linked to stress and anxiety lower. This leaves you calmer and more relaxed.
Let’s not forget about those alpha brain waves (I’m sure that’s what you were thinking)!
Alpha brain waves are tied to being in a state of wakeful relaxation. It’s basically that feeling you get when you are in the zone. Think about the times when you’ve meditated (if that’s your thing), did something creative, or even let yourself daydream. You’re in it and immersed in that moment.
This is great if you’re trying to get in that zone and be productive because it can help enhance that frame of mind without making you feel fatigued or tired.
Studies have also found that L-theanine is excellent for your body’s immune system. Something we’re all kind of concerned about given the pandemic going on.
This remarkable amino acid has also been linked to cancer and tumor treatment. The research is promising, indicating that L-theanine can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective.
L-Theanine & Caffiene
Think of L-Theanine and Caffeine as a compatible duo that compliment each other. They are the power couple we all aim to be.
Which is why tea is out drink of choice. Not only is caffeine found naturally in tea, so is L-theanine. Put these 2 together and you get a strong focus; with the boost in energy you aim for. And unlike with coffee, no jitters or anxiety. L-theanine combats certain down effects such as high blood pressure and anxiety which is why it makes such a good pair with caffeine.
L-theanine prevents caffeine crashes, and helps with sleep.
Overall, caffeine in tea is unmatched due to the benefits of L-theanine. We pick tea over coffee anytime.
Conclusion
Caffeine is great, but caffeine and L-theanine are a match made in heaven.