Epigallocatechin gallate (short: EGCG) is a naturally occurring secondary plant compound, that belongs to the catechins group. This group of polyphenols mainly includes substances that are particularly rich in tea, nuts, fruits, and cocoa.
EGCG is one of the most important and bioactive components in green tea. The substance has attracted great interest in scientific research due to its strong antioxidant properties and numerous study results have demonstrated several positive effects of EGCG.
Where is EGCG found?
EGCG is mainly found in the leaves of Camellia sinensis – the classic tea plant from which various types of tea, such as green, black, and white tea, are derived. However, green tea has the highest EGCG content, as its leaves are not fermented. In addition, EGCG can also be found in smaller amounts in nuts, berries, cocoa, and some fruits, such as berries, avocados, cherries, and apples.
What benefits does epigallocatechin gallate offer to the human body?
In the human body, epigallocatechin gallate has various functions that contribute to its health-promoting effects:
1. Epigallocatechin gallate has anti-cancer properties
EGCG has shown promising results in various studies for the prevention and treatment of cancer. The vital substance significantly enhances the activity of p53, a tumor suppressor protein, which plays a crucial role in preventing cancer development. P53 helps regulate the cell cycle, repair damaged DNA, and initiate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cells that have suffered irreparable damage and are thus at risk of mutations. Additionally, EGCG has been shown to suppress angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).
These properties could play a significant role in the prevention of cancer development.
2. EGCG has anti-inflammatory effects
EGCG can also reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory messengers, such as cytokines, prostaglandins, and z.Btumor necrosis factor-alpha (short: TNF-alpha). This could help alleviate chronic inflammation and related diseases. In terms of longevity, EGCG is particularly important in relation to inflammaging as a key protective factor.
3. Cardioprotective Effect of Epigallocatechin Gallate
Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce the risk of heart disease by improving the cholesterol levels and preventing the formation of blood clots. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 56 participants found that taking 379 mg of green tea extract per day for three months significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, insulin levels, and insulin resistance . Additionally, the experimental group showed lower inflammation levels, an improved antioxidant overall status, and a healthier lipid profile .
4.Epigallocatechin gallate and the NAD metabolism
A remarkable ability of EGCG is to activate the enzyme Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NMNAT) in the NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) metabolism. NAD is an essential coenzyme that plays a key role in numerous cellular metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cell death. NMNAT is an enzyme involved in the synthesis of NAD by converting nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) into NAD. By increasing the activity of NMNAT, EGCG can potentially enhance NAD production, thereby improving cell function and health. This could play a role in the prevention of age-related diseases and help extend cellular lifespan.For this reason, you will also find EGCG in regeNAD.
5. Cognitive performance and stress reduction
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled Crossover study , cognitive and cardiovascular functions, mood, and an electroencephalogram (EEG) were also examined before and 120 minutes after the intake of either 300 mg EGCG or a placebo.The results showed that the administration of EGCG was associated with a significant increase in alpha, beta, and theta brain activity. Participants who received the molecule also reported more calmness and less stress compared to the placebo group. 6. Weight loss through EGCG In a review article, the effects of green tea and its content of EGCG on body fat and body weight in humans were evaluated. Of an original total of 424 articles, 15 were selected for the systematic review.The results suggest that daily consumption of green tea with EGCG doses between 100 and 460 mg/day over an intervention period of 12 weeks or longer is particularly effective in reducing body fat and weight. In many studies with the most promising results, EGCG consumption was supplemented with caffeine in doses of 80 to 300 mg/day.
7. Contradictory results regarding the neuroprotective effect
EGCG was able to protect brain function in animal studies. Unfortunately, there is still much research needed in this regard for humans. While some observational and intervention studies in humans have found positive effects of tea consumption on cognitive functions and memory, other studies have reported no such positive results.The discrepancies may be due to confounding factors such as differences in tea consumption, beverage temperature, lifestyle, as well as genetic and environmental factors.
Conclusion
EGCG is a multifaceted molecule that has shown promising results in some studies. In particular, its ability to positively influence NAD metabolism could be exciting for the future.
