Green Tea Extract - NutraPedia

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Green Tea Extract Information

1) Conditions Studied for Green Tea Extract

Obesity and weight loss
Type 2 diabetes
Cardiovascular diseases
Certain types of cancer
Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases
Liver disorders

2) Efficacy in Treating Those Conditions

Some studies suggest it may promote modest weight loss, but evidence is not conclusive.
May improve glucose metabolism, but more research is needed for definitive claims.
Positive impact on blood pressure and cholesterol levels, potentially benefiting heart health.
Contains antioxidants that may help in cancer prevention, but there's no definitive proof it can treat cancer.
Neuroprotective effects have been observed in animal studies, but human studies are limited.
May protect against liver damage in certain cases, but more studies are required for a solid conclusion.

3) Health Benefits of Green Tea Extract

Rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
May boost metabolic rate in the short term, potentially aiding in weight management.
Green tea extract has been associated with improved brain function and may protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
Could reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving cholesterol and blood pressure.
May enhance liver function and provide protection against certain liver diseases.

4) Downsides of Green Tea Extract

High doses can lead to liver toxicity in sensitive individuals.
May cause side effects such as stomach upset, constipation, and nausea.
Contains caffeine, which can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and increased heart rate in some people.
Interactions with certain medications, such as blood thinners and stimulants, can be problematic.

5) Genetic Variations and Green Tea Extract

Individuals with genetic variations affecting caffeine metabolism may experience more pronounced side effects.
People with polymorphisms in their cytochrome P450 enzymes might be at an increased risk of liver toxicity.
Genetic differences could influence the extent of cardiovascular and metabolic benefits received from green tea extract.
Currently, there is no definitive evidence on specific genetic variations that would make green tea extract either more beneficial or harmful.

Green Tea Extract and Its Impact on Health

Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Body Composition

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials indicates that green tea consumption results in reductions in body weight, BMI, and body fat percentage in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Notable improvements were observed with long-term intake, lower doses (≤800 mg/day), and in overweight participants.

Cardiometabolic Health Benefits

Higher habitual intake of flavan-3-ols, which are present in green tea, is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, chronic heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Randomized controlled trials show improvements in cardiovascular markers, although findings show moderate to high heterogeneity. The evidence supports the beneficial effects of flavan-3-ol intake on cardiometabolic outcomes.

Green Tea and Cancer Risk

An updated review from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews on green tea consumption and cancer risk shows limited evidence of a beneficial effect. Experimental studies suggest a reduced risk of prostate cancer with green tea extract intake, while nonexperimental studies show a lower overall cancer incidence. However, methodological limitations and inconsistent results limit the generalizability of these findings.

Impact on Insulin Sensitivity and Blood Sugar Control

Research involving randomized controlled trials found no significant difference between the group consuming green tea or green tea extract and the placebo group in terms of key indicators of blood sugar and insulin sensitivity in individuals at risk for T2DM.

Safety of Green Tea Extracts (GTE)

The United States Pharmacopeia review highlights the importance of caution when consuming green tea extracts, noting potential links between high doses of EGCG and liver toxicity. New cautionary labeling advises against intake on an empty stomach, especially in individuals with liver issues, and recommends seeking medical advice if symptoms of liver trouble are experienced.

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