Green Tea Extract (EGCG) is a concentrated source of epigallocatechin gallate, a powerful antioxidant derived from green tea leaves. It's promoted for its potential benefits in supporting cardiovascul...
Green Tea Extract (EGCG) is a concentrated source of epigallocatechin gallate, a powerful antioxidant derived from green tea leaves. It's promoted for its potential benefits in supporting cardiovascular health, weight management, cognitive function, and blood sugar regulation. While generally considered safe at recommended dosages, potential side effects include stomach upset, headaches, and, rarely, liver toxicity. It can also interfere with iron absorption and interact with certain medications. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using green tea extract, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. Careful dosage consideration is important.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
300-700mg daily (containing 150-400mg EGCG)
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Green tea leaves are processed, typically involving steaming, drying, and then extracting the desired compounds, primarily EGCG, using solvents. The extract is then concentrated and standardized to ensure a consistent percentage of EGCG.
Use Type
Inside 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.
This benefit enhances and maintains optimal brain function, including cognitive abilities, memory, focus, learning, and mood regulation. It provides protection against age-related cognitive decline by supporting neuronal health and cerebral blood flow.
Cardiovascular health ensures efficient blood circulation by maintaining healthy heart and blood vessels. Benefits include reduced risk of heart disease and stroke through improved blood flow and heart function.
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.
Fat oxidation is the breakdown of fatty acids to produce energy. Enhancing fat oxidation can lead to weight management, increased energy, and improved metabolic health.
Magnesium regulates blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Supplementation can improve glycemic control, especially in those with deficiencies or insulin resistance.
Cognitive enhancement improves mental performance by boosting memory, attention, and processing speed. It works by promoting neuronal health and protecting against cognitive decline.
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
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.
Nausea is an unpleasant sensation of stomach unease, often preceding vomiting, caused by various factors like medications or infections. Prolonged nausea can lead to complications like dehydration.
Liver stress involves a spectrum of adverse effects on the liver, potentially causing inflammation, impaired function, or even liver damage, with symptoms such as elevated liver enzymes and jaundice. The severity is influenced by the causative agent, dosage, and individual factors.
Headaches are a common side effect characterized by pain in the head, ranging from mild to severe, potentially accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light/sound. They can be triggered by various factors, including dehydration, stress, or medication.
Stomach upset involves abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and potential diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Severity varies depending on individual sensitivities and underlying conditions.
Drug interactions can alter a drug's effectiveness, leading to either increased risk of blood clots or bleeding, particularly with anticoagulants. Monitoring is essential to manage these interactions.
L-Glutamine may interact with medications, particularly anti-seizure drugs, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Consultation with a healthcare professional is crucial before use if taking other medications.
Iron absorption interference inhibits the body's ability to absorb iron, potentially leading to iron deficiency and related symptoms such as fatigue and weakness. This occurs when substances bind to iron, preventing its absorption in the small intestine.
Scientific Evidence
Studies published in journals like the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, and the International Journal of Obesity have investigated the effects of green tea extract and EGCG on various health outcomes. Research has focused on its antioxidant properties, cardiovascular benefits, effects on weight management, cognitive function, and potential toxicity. Key studies include clinical trials assessing the impact of EGCG on weight loss, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as in vitro and animal studies examining its mechanisms of action and potential for liver toxicity.
User Reviews
Share your experience with this ingredient
Log in to write a reviewNo reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!