Does green tea keeps you awake or calms down?

Green tea contains caffeine, a stimulant that can keep you awake and alert. However, it also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which has a calming effect. L-theanine is thought to work by increasing the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood regulation and relaxation, respectively.

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea may explain why some people find that green tea helps them to focus and concentrate, while others find that it helps them to relax and de-stress. Ultimately, the effect of green tea on an individual will depend on a number of factors, including their sensitivity to caffeine and L-theanine, the amount of green tea they consume, and the time of day they consume it.

One study found that people who drank green tea before bedtime had better sleep quality than those who did not drink green tea. The researchers suggested that the L-theanine in green tea may have helped to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which in turn led to improved sleep quality.

Another study found that green tea may help to improve cognitive function in older adults. The researchers suggested that the caffeine and L-theanine in green tea may have worked synergistically to improve attention and memory.

Here are some general guidelines for consuming green tea if you are trying to stay awake or relax:

* If you are trying to stay awake, drink green tea in the morning or early afternoon. Avoid drinking green tea in the evening, as it may interfere with sleep.

* If you are trying to relax, drink green tea in the evening or before bedtime. The calming effects of L-theanine may help you to de-stress and wind down.

* If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may want to limit your intake of green tea to 2-3 cups per day.

* Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of green tea if you have any concerns about its effects on your health.