We often hear about our stress response being referred to as fight or flight or rest and digest. Our fight or flight response happens when our nervous system is in a “sympathetic” state, while a rest and digest response means our nervous system is in its “parasympathetic” state. Personal concerns, work deadlines, the news, traffic, and many of the events we experience each day can keep us in a sympathetic state. Being in this state for long periods of time may lead to increased inflammation, tissue damage and reduced immunity. Parasympathetic mode is much better for our health and longevity! Activities like yoga, deep breathing, meditation, walking in nature, and adequate sleep can help us get there.

Ever wonder why a cup of tea is often recommended to help calm us down? The simple act of taking time to pause and enjoy a warm beverage is calming and what’s in your cup can help too! Since ancient times, it has been documented that tea has been used to help promote relaxation. Studies show the high amount of L-theanine found in green tea is responsible for this relaxing effect. L-theanine has been shown to decrease excitatory beta brain waves that may contribute to stress and anxiety while increasing the alpha brain waves that promote feelings of relaxation.

Suntheanine^® L-theanine is not an extract of green tea, but rather is produced via a patented process that mimics the natural process in green tea leaves, resulting in a 100% pure L-isomer-theanine. Suntheanine^® is backed by more than 60 human clinical studies documenting its ability to help to temporarily promote relaxation while improving focus, alertness, attention, concentration, and even sleep. Clinical research suggests that 50 to 200 mg of Suntheanine^® stimulates alpha brain waves, which are associated with a relaxed but alert mental state.

Since we can’t practice yoga in the forest all day drinking tea, you may need some extra support! Health First L-Theanine Supreme contains 100 mg of Suntheanine^® L-theanine per chewable tablet. Naturally flavoured with chocolate and slightly sweetened with xylitol and monk fruit, the act of chewing these tablets combined with the L-theanine can help support a relaxed yet alert state of mind. Like all Health First products, they are made in Canada and are free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.

About the Author: Health First Network

Health First Network is Canada’s leading membership group for independent health & wellness retailers and the exclusive supplier of the premium Health First supplement brand. There are over 140 independently owned and operated retail Members across the country. Click here to learn more about Health First.