Daily Distractions

In our present harried and hectic world it can be difficult to maintain focus throughout the day. Constant distractions and lack of concentration compounds, leading to stress and exhaustion. Green tea is an incredibly healthful way to centre oneself and increase cognition and clarity.

Green Tea and L-theanine

One of the most effective ingredients for maintaining focus and improving memory is L-theanine. In clinical studies it has been shown to relieve anxiety and reduce stress (i). When we are in a state of stress our rational thinking and memory are directly affected. L-theanine has the amazing ability to induce relaxation without causing drowsiness; the resting heart rate remains the same (ii).

L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in green and black tea leaves from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Research shows that it prevents damage to brain cells, increases mental alertness and creates a calm and balanced state of mind. L-theanine relaxes the brain by increasing alpha wave activity which aid in focus and promote creative thinking (iii).

Moderate L-theanine can also be beneficial for teenagers for the same reasons outlined thus far – it aids in the maintenance of concentration during tasks which require intense focus. Increased alertness can be felt within 30 minutes of ingesting L-theanine (iv). This amino acid affects our serotonin and dopamine levels which help to balance mood, emotion and ability to deal with stress.

The most commonly used source of L Theanine is green tea; loose leaf, matcha or bagged – they are all excellent sources. 22 mg of L-theanine or one cup of tea is great starting point and will get give you the clarity, cognition and calmness you seek. It is contains high levels of antioxidants making it a true powerhouse ingredient.

History of Green Tea

Green tea was first used by the Chinese Dynasty. The Emperor Shennong drank water that had a green tea leaf boiled in it not realizing and quickly noticed the benefits. Green tea, at that point, was only accessible to nobility and it was around 800 A.D when the benefits of green tea were shared with the general populous (v). By the 19th Century green tea had been introduced to Europe and soon appeared in North America. Within the last Century green tea’s popularity has soared. It can easily be found in cafes and stores and is incorporated into products above and beyond tea. There are a multitiude of varietals and applications to choose, from steeped jasmine or genmaicha to a matcha latte.

Whether you are suffering from anxiety, lack of concentration or bad memory, L-theanine a essential addition to add to your daily nutrition. Taken in conjunction with Edica Naturals’ CLEAN MIND you can reap the benefits of a focus and a balanced mood. Enjoy the following recipe to enhance memory and feel alert all day!

Recipe: Smooth Operator Smoothie

Yum in a glass is the simplest way to describe it. But it also has high immune boosting properties, increases mental focus, boosts energy, and is rich in so many vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

MAKES 2 SERVINGS

· ½ ripe banana

· 2 cups rice milk or coconut water

· ½ cup frozen peaches

· ½ cup frozen blueberries

· ½ ripe avocado

· 2 tablespoons hemp seeds

· 1 tablespoon coconut oil

· 1 tablespoon goji berries

· 1 tablespoon chia

· 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder


Directions

1. In a blender, puree all ingredients on high until creamy.

2. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Clean Mind™ has 100mg of L-Theanine in each serving.