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L-Theanine: How Fast It Works and How Long It Lasts

What is L-Theanine?

L-theanine, an amino acid, is historically found in green and black tea. It is well-known for promoting relaxation, focus, and mental clarity, and is often used as a sleeping aid. Crucially, it offers these benefits without the grogginess side effects often associated with such products.

L-theanine works quickly, and its effects can last forbetween 4 - 8 hours. As such, it’s important for people looking to incorporate L-theanine into their lives to understand how to time their intake to maximize its benefits. You’ll take L-theanine at different times of the day depending on whether you’re looking for the stress relief, cognitive performance, or sleep benefits.

Here atRegen Labs, we often get asked two questions:

  • How long does L theanine take to work?
  • How long does L theanine last?

We’ll answer these two questions below, ensuring you can maximize the benefits of taking L-theanine.

How Long Does L-Theanine Take to Work? 

If you’re wondering how long does L-theanine take to work, most users feel its effects within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. This rapid absorption is a key benefit of L-theanine, allowing you to enjoy its relaxing and focus-enhancing effects in less than an hour. For the fastest results, take L-theanine on an empty stomach. Depending on factors such as body weight, metabolism, and whether it's combined with food or other supplements, onset time may vary slightly.

Absorption Rate of L-Theanine

L-theanine is fast-acting. It’s quickly absorbed by the body, and you should begin feeling the effects within around 30 - 60 minutes. 

Factors Affecting Onset

There are a number of factors that can determine how long it takes for the effects of L-theanine to kick in. The most influential factor is whether it’s taken on an empty stomach or with food. It’ll typically work more quickly if taken on an empty stomach.

Immediate Effects on the Brain

L-theanine promotes the production of alpha brain waves. This fast-acting benefit helps to promote relaxation and a sense of calm, usually within the first hour of consumption. This makes it an excellent supplement to take during stressful work days.

Related Article: When to Take L-Theanine for Maximum Benefits

How Long Do the Effects of L-Theanine Last? 

Duration of L-Theanine in the Body

You’ll typically find that the effects of L-theanine last between around 4 - 8 hours. Precisely how long you’ll feel the effects will depend on factors that can vary, such as the strength of the dose and the individual’s metabolism. 

Sustained Calm Without Sedation

One of the main advantages of L-theanine is that it does not produce the drowsiness or sedation typically associated with products that promote relaxation and mental clarity. As a result, users take L-theanine at any time of the day since it is suitable for both daytime and nighttime consumption. 

Duration Based on Different Uses

The duration of L-theanine’s effects depends on the dosage and what you're using it for:

  • For Focus and Mental Clarity:Expect the effects to last around 6-8 hours, which is ideal for a full work or study session.
  • For Stress Relief:If taken for stress management, the calming effects may last 4-6 hours, making it a great option for tackling midday stress.
  • For Sleep:When taken for sleep, L-theanine promotes relaxation for several hours, without causing next-day grogginess.

Factors Influencing How Long L-Theanine Lasts

How long L-theanine lasts can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as:

  • Dosage:Higher doses (200 mg or more) may provide longer-lasting effects, while smaller doses (100 mg) might wear off sooner.
  • Metabolism:People with faster metabolisms might feel the effects wear off more quickly, while those with slower metabolisms may experience longer-lasting effects.
  • Combining With Other Substances: Taking L-theanine with other calming supplements like magnesium or melatonin could extend its effects, especially for sleep-related uses. 

InstaZen® by Regen Labs: A Fast-Acting, Long-Lasting L-Theanine Supplement 

InstaZen®, a specially formulated, high-quality L-theanine supplement, has been designed for quick absorption by the body and long-lasting effects. It helps to elevate mood, boost concentration, and silence tension.  

Why InstaZen® Works

InstaZen® benefits from a fast-acting formulation. This allows takers to enjoy the many benefits provided by L-theanine, such as a sense of calm and focus, in as little as thirty minutes. The effects last for several hours. 

Flexible Usage for Our L-Theanine Supplement

There’s no single recommended way to use InstaZen®. You can take one daily, but when you choose to do so will depend on what you’re wishing to achieve. For instance, you might take it first thing in the morning for a calm and focused beginning to your day; throughout the work day to keep stress at bay and ensure you can get your tasks done; or in the evening as a way to relax before you fall asleep.

How to Use L-Theanine Effectively

L-theanine works differently depending on when it’s consumed. As such, you can tailor the supplement to your unique needs. 

  • Need a focused start to the day? Take it in the morning.
  • Having a stressful workday? Take it at midday for fast-acting stress relief.
  • Trying to improve your sleep? Take it 30 - 60 minutes before going to bed.

Combining L-Theanine with Other Supplements

Studies have shown that L-theanine works well with caffeine, helping to provide a focused, calm start to the day that’s great for busy workdays. Those taking L-theanine for sleep can combine it with melatonin or magnesium, both of which help to support a good night’s sleep.

L- Theanine Dosage Considerations

You won’t need much L-theanine to experience the benefits. Most people take around 100 - 200 mg per dose, around two doses per day. 

Final Thoughts on How Long L-Theanine Lasts 

In summary, L-theanine works quickly, with effects typically beginning within 30 to 60 minutes. These effects can last for up to 8 hours, providing sustained calm and focus throughout the day or evening. Whether you’re using it for cognitive performance, stress relief, or better sleep, understanding how long L-theanine lasts and how long it takes to work can help you tailor your intake for maximum benefits.

If you’re ready to discover the power of L-theanine, then pick upInstaZen® by Regen Labs today.

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