“Therefore, consumption of stimulants such as caffeine may have a similar effect on those with ADHD. Small amounts of caffeine have been shown to help focus, stimulate the mind, and clear brain fog. People with ADHD benefit from this form of “brain boosting.” “because it helps them focus on each task.”

It’s no surprise that many people with ADHD self-medicate with caffeine—sometimes even before they’re officially diagnosed. However, the use of caffeine can be accompanied by many side effects (for example, palpitations, nervousness, anxious thoughts). This is where L-theanine comes in.

L-theanine has been shown to moderate some of the stimulant effects of caffeine increase in alpha waves11 in the brain, which can help you achieve a “flow state” while working. In a 2020 small randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in Scientific reportsresearchers found that a combination of caffeine and L-theanine was more effective in alleviating boys’ ADHD symptoms (including mind wandering, rash behavior, and inhibitory control) than either phytonutrient alone.

The Zen, focused calm that comes from this synergistic duo can be helpful for people with ADHD as they try to focus their energy on a task that requires concentration.

RELATED READING: How L-Theanine and Caffeine Helped Buddhist Monks and Neurohackers