L-Theanine is popping up in supplements everywhere at the moment. But before you reach for the bottle, here’s what you need to know when it comes to your child, and what other ways there are to help ADHD.
If you are looking for ways to help your kids with ADHD or anxiety, you’ve probs seen chewables and gummies for little ones that claim to improve their focus, reduce stress, and promote calmness.
They contain L-theanine, which is an amino acid that occurs naturally in green tea and some mushrooms. But while it has been shown to have calming and relaxing effects in adults, there isn’t actually a lot of research on its safety and efficacy in children, so it’s wise to be cautious.
There was a small study, which was published in the journal Pediatrics which found that L-theanine may improve sleep quality in children with ADHD, but, the study was only conducted on 20 children, so more research is needed.
There is also the potential for L-theanine to interact with other medications or supplements your child is taking, so it is important to talk to your child’s doctor or pharmacist before giving L-theanine to your mini-me.
“WHILE IT HAS BEEN SHOWN TO HAVE CALMING AND RELAXING EFFECTS IN ADULTS, THERE ISN’T ACTUALLY A LOT OF RESEARCH ON ITS SAFETY AND EFFICACY IN CHILDREN, SO IT IS WISE TO BE CAUTIOUS.”
How can you help your child with ADHD or anxiety in other ways?
There are a number of evidence-based strategies that you can use to help your child with ADHD or anxiety, as advised by the medics. These include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help children learn how to manage their thoughts, feelings and behaviours, which can be a super valuable tool for life.
- ADHD coaching: Professional paediatric ADHD coaches are adept at helping kids organise their thoughts and structure their lives to get the best from their ADHD superpowers.
- Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help children calm down and focus.
- Exercise: Exercise is known to help improve mood, reduce stress and aid sleep.
- Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for children’s mental health. (If you can get your child into a solid sleep routine, especially when they have ADHD, please let us know how!)
- Educational accommodations: To relief stress and adapt your child’s learning environment to their needs, be sure to talk to your child’s school about accommodations, such as reduced homework or having your child sit towards the front of the class where there is less distraction.
*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical guidance, diagnosis and/or treatment.
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