Epigallocatechin gallate (short: EGCG) is a naturally occurring secondary plant substance, which belongs to the catechins . This group of polyphenols primarily includes substances that are particularly rich in tea, nuts, fruit and cocoa .
EGCG is one of the most important and bioactive components in green tea. The substance has aroused great interest in scientific research due to its strong antioxidant properties and numerous study results have demonstrated several positive effects of EGCG.
Where does EGCG occur?
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 obtained. However, green tea has the highest EGCG content because its leaves are not fermented. In addition, EGCG is also found in smaller amounts in nuts, berries, cocoa and some fruits such as berries, avocados, cherries and apples.
What benefits does epigallocatechin gallate offer 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 the prevention and treatment of cancer in various studies. The vital substance has been proven to increase the activity of p53, a tumor suppressor protein, which plays a crucial role in preventing the development of cancer. P53 helps regulate the cell cycle, repair damaged DNA and initiate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cells that have suffered irreparable damage and are therefore at risk of mutation. In addition, EGCG was able to suppress angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).
These properties could play an important role in preventing the development of cancer.
2. EGCG has anti-inflammatory effects
EGCG can also Reduce inflammation in the body by increasing the production of inflammatory messenger substances such as cytokines, prostaglandins and e.g.b inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha (short: TNF-alpha). This could help reduce chronic inflammation and related diseases. With regard to longevity, EGCG is an important protective factor, particularly in connection with Inflammaging .
3. Cardioprotective effect of epigallocatechin gallate
Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and the Prevents the formation of blood clots. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 56 subjects found that taking 379 mg of green tea extract per day after three months reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, insulin levels and Insulin resistance significantly reduced. In addition, the experimental group had lower inflammation levels, an improved antioxidant overall status and a healthier lipid profile on.
4. Epigallocatechin gallate and NAD metabolism
A notable ability of EGCG is the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NMNAT) im 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 increase NAD production, thereby improving cellular function and health. This could play a role in preventing age-related diseases and help extend cellular lifespan. For this reason you can 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 measured before and 120 minutes after taking either 300 mg EGCG or a placebo. The results showed that EGCG administration was associated with a significant increase in alpha, beta and theta brain activity. Participants who received the molecule also reported more calm and less stress compared to the placebo group.
6. Weight loss through EGCG
In a review paper the effects of green tea and its EGCG content 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 at doses of 80 to 300 mg/day.
7. Conflicting results on the neuroprotective effect
EGCG was able to protect brain function in animal studies. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of research to be done in humans in this regard. While some human observational and intervention studies have found positive effects of tea consumption on cognitive function and memory, other studies have not reported such positive results. The discrepancies may be due to confounding factors such as differences in how tea is consumed, beverage temperature, lifestyle, and 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 can be exciting for the future.
