Green tea extract, derived from Camellia sinensis, is a concentrated source of polyphenols, primarily catechins, with EGCG being the most studied. It's used for its potential antioxidant, cardiovascul...
Green tea extract, derived from Camellia sinensis, is a concentrated source of polyphenols, primarily catechins, with EGCG being the most studied. It's used for its potential antioxidant, cardiovascular, weight management, and cognitive benefits. While generally safe for most, potential side effects such as caffeine-related issues and gastrointestinal upset can occur. Rarely, liver toxicity has been reported. Dosage considerations are important, typically ranging from 250-750mg daily, and consulting a healthcare professional is advised, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
250-750mg daily
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Green tea extract is produced by steaming, pan-frying, or oven-drying the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant to prevent oxidation. The dried leaves are then extracted with solvents (e.g., water, ethanol) to concentrate the beneficial compounds, particularly polyphenols like catechins. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving the concentrated extract.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Enhances mental processes involved in thinking, learning, and remembering, including memory, attention, focus, and processing speed. Benefits range from improved mental clarity to significant enhancements in cognitive abilities, especially in those with cognitive decline.
Antioxidant support protects cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals, supporting immune function, and reducing inflammation. It contributes to overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports cardiovascular health.
Blood sugar control maintains blood glucose levels within a healthy range, preventing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. This involves insulin regulation, glucose uptake, and liver glucose production, crucial for preventing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Psyllium husk promotes satiety by absorbing water in the gut, potentially reducing calorie intake and aiding weight management. It increases stool bulk, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Possible Side Effects
May cause mild digestive discomfort.
Liver toxicity (hepatotoxicity) is liver damage induced by substances such as drugs or chemicals, potentially leading to liver failure. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fatigue, with severe cases possibly fatal.
Gastrointestinal upset involves symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are typically mild and often resolve on their own.
Caffeine in green tea extract may cause insomnia, anxiety, jitteriness, irritability, and rapid heartbeat, especially in sensitive individuals or at high doses. These are due to stimulation of the nervous system.
High doses of green tea extract, especially in concentrated forms, can rarely cause liver toxicity. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions should exercise caution.
Green tea extract can interfere with iron absorption due to its catechin content, potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia. The severity depends on dosage, dietary iron intake, and individual iron status.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have investigated the effects of green tea extract. Key studies include those examining its antioxidant properties (e.g., research on EGCG's scavenging abilities), cardiovascular effects (e.g., studies on blood pressure and cholesterol), weight management potential (e.g., research on thermogenesis and fat oxidation), and cognitive benefits (e.g., studies on memory and attention). However, further research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects and optimal dosage.
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