Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: What Are The Differences?

Have you heard about Suntheanine and L-Theanine? If you are one of those actively looking for supplements, you probably encounter such products. For others, on the other hand, it might be that this is your first time hearing such.

Nevertheless, to inform everyone, Suntheanine and L-Theanine are popular dietary supplements. Both of them are known for their calming effects. However, they have been said to have unique properties and applications.

Wondering how? In this article, we will explore the difference between the two in terms of their side effects, dosage, and benefits. Read on to find out more.

What are Suntheanine and L-Theanine?

To begin the main discussion, let us know what Suntheanine and L-Theanine are. Suntheanine and L-Theanine are natural compounds commonly used as dietary supplements. Since they are considered safe and well-tolerated with minimal reported side effects, they are available as standalone supplements.

They are also made available in combination with other ingredients to form a certain formula for various health and wellness products. Despite similarities, however, they also have some differences, especially in their origin.

What is L-Theanine?

L-Theanine is an amino acid that is primarily found in tea leaves. They might be present in all teas, but are particularly more prominent in green and black tea than others. Nevertheless, drinking a cup of green tea may not be sufficient to supplement you with it. [1]

What is Suntheanine?

In contrast with L-Theanine, Suntheanine is a patented form of L-Theanine. It is produced through a fermentation process. The goal is to mimic the natural process of L-Theanine. Thus, it is said to be a purified one. [2]

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Benefits

As mentioned earlier, L-Theanine is said to be the plain version of Suntheanine. On the other hand, Suntheanine is the concentrated version of L-Theanine.

With that, many claim that Suntheanine can retain the same calming and stress-reducing properties of L-Theanine. Some also claim that L-Theanine gives an average effect while Suntheanine is more potent.

Having said such, they say that Suntheanine gives the maximum effect, in contrast to its plain form. However, there has not been enough research about Suntheanine alone.

Nevertheless, there is a piece of good news. Research involving the use of L-Theanine is growing. Out of those studies, results suggest that L-Theanine and Suntheanine pose the following benefits.

Promotion of Better Mental Health

L-Theanine has been studied, investigating its effect on stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions. The participants of this randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover, and double-blind trial were healthy adults.

The study’s overall findings showed that a four-week administration of L-Theanine has positive effects on one’s overall mental well-being. This is due to the changes it does to certain brain functions. [3]

Reduction of Stress and Anxiety

Numerous studies about L-Theanine have been done, especially on its effect on stress and anxiety. According to a literature review, L-Theanine is effective for both humans and animals. Indeed, it has been found that its relaxation effect is beneficial to healthy individuals and people living with anxiety disorders. [4]

Improved Sleep Quality

According to a study, L-Theanine differs from other amino acids as it interacts with the brain’s neurotransmitters. Moreover, the same study found that administering around 200 mg of L-theanine may help improve sleep quality.

The more interesting finding is that it can also be taken at any time of the day. As such, researchers found out that L-Theanine does not increase nor contribute to daytime drowsiness. [5][6]

Cognitive Improvements

There is a study investigating the effects of L-Theanine on cognitive functions, especially on memory. Results showed that those who were administered L-Theanine experienced a decreased reaction time when responding, and increased correct answers in a test. [7][8]

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Side Effects

According to the sleep foundation, more research must be done to comprehensively determine the side effects of Suntheanine and L-Theanine. However, the Food and Drug Administration declared that it is generally safe to consume. [9]

Nevertheless, they warn the public that Suntheanine may produce side effects with other ingredients. Taking higher doses than normal may also result in undesirable results. Thus, side effects may include but may not be limited to:

• Gastrointestinal upset
• Possible liver problems when overdose
• Disrupted sleep when combined with caffeine

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Dosage

Doses for Suntheanine and L-Theanine are still not well-defined. However, researchers found that 200-2000 mg of such may be safe to take. Additionally, no research has been done involving teens and children as participants. Thus, generating a universal dose isn’t possible.

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Safety

As for the safety, both products are safe to use. However, one must be careful of taking it with other medications. Similarly, you must be aware of other ingredients being combined with the product you buy to avoid unexpected effects and drug interactions.

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Differences

If we summarize the differences between Suntheanine and L-Theanine, we can say that:

• L-Theanine is the plain type, while Suntheanine is the purified type.
• Suntheanine is more potent or more concentrated than L-Theanine.
• L-Theanine originates from tea leaves, while Suntheanine originates from L-Theanine.

Despite differences, it is said that both have the same health benefits.

Suntheanine Vs. L-Theanine: Which Is Better

Given that Suntheanine comes from L-Theanine and both come with the same health benefits, you may think you can take any of the two. While that can be partly true, you need to consider some things.

For instance, a higher price will follow because Suntheanine had to undergo a process to purify the compound. However, if you want to get the more potent one, Suntheanine will be your choice. Additionally, Suntheanine is more prone to be combined with other ingredients.

Thus, L-Theanine is a better choice when you want to go with a lower-priced product. However, it may not be as potent as its other form.

Conclusion

Suntheanine and L-Theanine are both amino acids known for their relaxing and calming effects. The main difference between them is the origin and production process.

While both offer similar benefits, the use of Suntheanine is believed to offer certain advantages due to its higher potency. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to establish certainty with such a claim. Consulting a doctor is encouraged.

Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.