For anyone who is feeling stressed out, anxious, or overly tired, there are some natural supplements that can help. Two of these are PEA (Phenylethylamine) and L-Theanine. They both show many beneficial effects which include elevating mood, combating stress, and improving cognitive abilities. A closer examination into both of these supplements can help us understand why and how.
What is Phenylethylamine?
This supplement is actually a derivative of the amino acid Phenylalanine which is found in chocolate and a number of other food sources. There is much evidence to suggest that it is able to influence and improve mood. This effect, along with several additional benefits, are thought to be caused by the supplement having a modulating effect on several brain chemicals including Dopamine which is believed responsible for regulating mood and movement functions.
PEA Phenylethylamine Benefits:
As far as benefits go, PEA is actually able to elevate mood and induce a natural feeling of euphoria. This is one of the reasons why people feel good after eating chocolate. This also serves to elevate blood pressure and blood glucose levels. There is even evidence to suggest that this supplement helps to speed up the metabolism and has a fat burning effect. Newer research also suggests that PEA may play a role in helping to improve memory and other cognitive functions.
What is Theanine?
Theanine is another naturally occurring amino acid. It is also commonly found in green tea. It is also a form of Glutamic acid and helps to induce a calming and relaxing state in people. Theanine also has some effects on powerful neurotransmitters within the brain, namely Serotonin, Dopamine, and GABA. These chemicals all play a vital role in helping to induce feelings of calm and relaxation.
Theanine Benefits:
Taking a Theanine supplement has a number of benefits. First, Theanine smoothes out alpha brain waves. In other words, it helps the mind to relax. This is likely due to its effects upon GABA, which helps to reduce excitability in the brain. The effects upon other neurotransmitters also lead to a feeling of restful calm and relaxation. When taken together, Theanine even helps to ward off the side effects of caffeine.
PEA and Theanine Combination:
PEA and Theanine together is a very powerful combination. Anyone who needs to relax or calm down should consider this combination of supplements. They are both natural ingredients with extremely low levels of toxicity and side effects.
