L-theanine: The New "Focus" of Beverage Companies

Every so often the beverage industry comes under scrutiny for any trend that they attempt to ride. The bubble was focused on Diet sodas for as long as I can remember, then the attention shifted to the levels of caffeine in certain drinks, and now we can facilitate the examination of L-theanine. Accoring to the LA Times, “the substance comes from the Camellia sinensis plant species, otherwise known as tea.” Drink labels are trying to tap into what their audience is in need for, and apparently, not everyone necessarily wants to get “jacked up” and experience an energy high. This specific substance, L-theanine, is meant to stimulate parts of the brain that will, in essence, help you focus. The amino acid can be found in certain new products of Gatorade, SoBe Lifewater, Vitamin Water an ViB, to name a few. Is this good or bad? Depends on the research you expose yourself to. The same conversation pieces that were once associated with caffeine and diet soda are sure to find new headway when exploring L-theanine. Either way, drink on!