epigallocatechin gallate (short: EGCG) is a naturally occurring secondary plant substance, which belongs to the catechins heard. This group of polyphenols includes substances that are particularly rich found in tea, nuts, fruit and cocoa.
EGCG is one of the most important and bioactive components in green Tea. The substance has due to its strong antioxidant properties aroused great interest in scientific research 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 contentbecause its leaves are not fermented. 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 to the human body?
In the human body, epigallocatechin gallate has various functions that contribute to its health-promoting effects:
1st Epigallocatechin gallate has anti-cancer properties
EGCG has shown promising results in various studies in the prevention and treatment of cancer. The vital substance has been shown to increase 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 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.
2nd EGCG has anti-inflammatory effects
EGCG can also Reduce inflammation in the bodyby stimulating the production of inflammatory messengers such as cytokines, prostaglandins and e.g. tumor necrosis factor-alpha (short: TNF-alpha). This could help alleviate chronic inflammation and related diseases. In terms of longevity, EGCG is particularly in connection with Inflammaging an important protective factor.
3. Cardioprotective Effect of Epigallocatechin Gallate
Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels improves and prevents the formation of blood clots.A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 56 subjects found that taking 379 mg of green tea extract per day after three months both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, insulin levels and insulin resistance significantly reduced. In addition, the experimental group showed lower inflammation levels, improved antioxidant overall status and a healthier lipid profile on.
4. Epigallocatechin gallate and NAD metabolism
A remarkable ability of EGCG is 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) to NAD. By increasing the activity of NMNAT, EGCG can potentially increase NAD production and thus improve cell function and healthThis 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.
5th 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 taking either 300 mg of 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 serenity and less stress compared to the placebo group.
6th weight loss through EGCG
In one review article the effects of green tea and its EGCG content on body fat and body weight in humans were evaluated. From an initial total of 424 articles, 15 were selected for 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 weightIn many studies with the most promising results, EGCG consumption was supplemented with caffeine in doses of 80 to 300 mg/day.
7th Contradictory results on neuroprotective effects
EGCG was able to protect brain function in animal studies. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of research needed in humans.While some observational and intervention studies in humans 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 the type of tea consumption, beverage temperature, lifestyle, and genetic and environmental factors.
Conclusion
EGCG is a multifaceted molecule that has shown promising results in several studies. In particular, its ability to positively influence NAD metabolism could be exciting for the future.
