Researchers Discover: Green Tea Helps Keep the Brain in Shape. Its Component EGCG Cleanses Neurons of Toxic Proteins, Restores Energy, and Enhances Memory, Attention, and Mood.
Regular green tea can serve as a natural "doping" agent for the brain – this is the conclusion drawn by scientists from the University of California. A recent study has shown that the main component of green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), can remarkably influence nerve cells.
EGCG literally "restarts" aging neurons: it restores their energy balance and initiates cellular cleansing processes – the natural detoxification of cells from toxic proteins (including beta-amyloid, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease). Just after one day of such exposure, the brain appears to be cleansed: memory, attention, mood improve and stress levels decrease. To maintain this effect, one needs to consume approximately 800 ml of freshly brewed green tea a day.
A Natural Stimulator for Neurons
Green tea has long been celebrated for its beneficial properties and tonic effects. Nowadays, scientific research continues to unveil new dimensions of its impact on the body. The latest work by scientists, published in the journal GeroScience, has revealed an unexpected property of green tea: the antioxidant EGCG has proven to be a powerful stimulant for brain cells.
In laboratory trials, the combination of EGCG with vitamin B3 (niacinamide) literally revitalised aging neurons, significantly improving their condition. This outcome surprised the researchers and reaffirmed green tea's reputation as a "nectar" for the brain.
Restarting Aging Neurons
With age, brain cells gradually lose "energy nourishment". Neurons experience a decline in guanosine triphosphate (GTP) levels – a molecule that serves as an energy source for cellular processes. Without this "fuel", mitochondrial function suffers, and the self-repair mechanisms of the neuron slow down. Consequently, aging cells accumulate damage and lose their functions.
However, the addition of EGCG (along with niacinamide) allowed for an effective reboot of aging neurons. Within just 24 hours of the experiment, the energy balance of the cells was restored to almost a "youthful" level. Neurons once again received sufficient energy to function properly. Simultaneously, oxidative stress levels decreased, and cell survival rates improved – they became less susceptible to death.
“Cellular Cleaning” of the Brain from Proteins
Another issue faced by an aging brain is the accumulation of "waste" in cells. When cellular cleaning processes (such as autophagy) slow down, neurons fail to efficiently dispose of defective and toxic proteins. One of the most dangerous is beta-amyloid, a protein that forms plaques in the brain over time. Accumulations of beta-amyloid are considered a key factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease: these deposits disrupt connections between neurons and lead to cell death.
According to the study, EGCG activates cellular cleaning processes in neurons. It initiates a mechanism to expel toxic protein aggregates from cells, including accumulated beta-amyloid. In other words, green tea aids the brain in cleansing itself of harmful deposits that hinder its normal functioning. Such "spring cleaning" significantly reduces the risk of damage and death of brain cells.
Enhancing Memory and Mood
The restoration of energy and cleansing of the brain quickly reflects on its functioning. Experts note that within just one day, the brain appeared "refreshed". A range of positive changes in cognitive functions has been recorded:
- Improvement in memory (easier to recall information).
- Increased concentration (greater focus).
- Improved mood (less anxiety and apathy).
- Decreased stress levels (a sense of calm).
Collectively, these changes mean that the brain begins to operate more efficiently and is in a more balanced, healthy state.
Green Tea Every Day: How Much and How to Drink
To keep the brain in shape, scientists recommend regular consumption of green tea. The optimal "dosage" is approximately 800 ml per day, which equates to about 3-4 cups of freshly brewed tea.
It is important to follow a few simple rules to extract the maximum benefit from this beverage:
- Choose high-quality loose-leaf tea without additives – it contains more beneficial polyphenols, including EGCG.
- Brewing green tea with not boiling water, but with water around 75-80 °C. At higher temperatures, some valuable substances are destroyed.
- Steep the tea for 2-3 minutes – this is sufficient to extract EGCG and other beneficial components.
- Consume the drink fresh rather than letting it sit for long – this way, you optimise antioxidant intake.
- Distribute your 3-4 cups in the first half of the day. Avoid strong tea in the evening (especially if sensitive to caffeine) to maintain sleep quality.
Overall, about four cups of green tea per day is considered a safe norm for a healthy adult. In this volume, the drink reveals its beneficial properties to the fullest.
New Perspectives for Brain Health
Current findings pave the way for new strategies to protect the brain from aging. Researchers hope that based on EGCG, effective and safe preventive measures against dementia and therapies for Alzheimer's disease can be developed. However, so far, data have only been obtained in laboratory conditions, and additional testing on animals and humans is necessary before recommending EGCG as a medicinal treatment.
Nonetheless, it is already evident: natural substances can exert a powerful positive influence on the brain. Notably, observations indicate that green tea enthusiasts are on average less likely to experience dementia. It is now clear why this beverage is so beneficial for the nervous system.
Therefore, incorporating a few cups of green tea into your daily routine is a simple and accessible means of supporting your brain, helping to maintain mental clarity and robust memory for years to come.
