Scientists Discover: Green Tea Helps Keep the Brain Fit. Its Component EGCG Cleans Neurons of Toxic Proteins, Restores Energy, and Improves Memory, Attention, and Mood.
Regular green tea can serve as a natural "doping" for the brain — this conclusion was reached by researchers from the University of California. A recent study showed that the main component of green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), can remarkably influence nerve cells.
EGCG literally "reboots" aging neurons: it restores their energy balance and initiates "cellular cleanup" processes — the natural cleansing of cells from toxic proteins (including beta-amyloid, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease). Within just one day of this exposure, the brain seems to be cleansed: memory, attention, and mood improve, while stress levels decrease. Moreover, to maintain this effect, it is sufficient to drink about 800 ml of freshly brewed green tea per day.
A Natural Stimulator for Neurons
Green tea has long been renowned for its health benefits and stimulating effects. In modern times, scientific research continues to unveil new aspects of its impact on the body. The latest work by scientists, published in the journal GeroScience, revealed an unexpected property of green tea: the antioxidant EGCG turned out to be a powerful stimulator for brain cells.
In laboratory experiments, the combination of EGCG with vitamin B3 (niacinamide) literally revived aging neurons, significantly improving their condition. This result surprised researchers and confirmed green tea's reputation as a "elixir" for the brain.
Rebooting Aging Neurons
With age, brain cells gradually lose "energy supply." The level of guanosine triphosphate (GTP), a molecule that serves as an energy source for cellular processes, declines in neurons. Without this "fuel," mitochondrial function suffers and the self-repair mechanisms of neurons slow down. As a result, aging cells accumulate damage and lose their functions.
However, the addition of EGCG (in combination with niacinamide) effectively allowed for the actual rebooting of old neurons. Within just 24 hours of the experiment, the energy balance of the cells was restored to nearly "youthful" levels. Neurons once again received enough energy charge for normal functioning. Simultaneously, the level of oxidative stress decreased, and cell survival increased — they became less prone to death.
"Cellular Cleanup" of the Brain from Proteins
Another issue facing the aging brain is the accumulation of "waste" within cells. When the processes of "cellular cleanup" (such as autophagy) slow down, neurons cease to efficiently dispose of defective and toxic proteins. One of the most dangerous is beta-amyloid, a protein that forms plaques in the brain as one ages. 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 the processes of "cellular cleanup" in neurons. It initiates the mechanism for removing toxic protein aggregates from cells, including accumulated beta-amyloid. In other words, green tea helps the brain cleanse itself of harmful deposits that interfere with its normal functioning. This "general cleaning" significantly reduces the risk of damage and death of brain cells.
Improvement of Memory and Mood
The restoration of energy and cleansing of the brain quickly reflect on its functioning. Experts note that within a day, the brain appeared "renewed." A number of positive changes in cognitive function were observed:
- Improvement in memory (easier to recall information).
- Increased concentration (greater focus).
- Improvement in mood (less anxiety and apathy).
- Reduction in stress levels (a sense of calm).
Collectively, these changes indicate that the brain begins to function more efficiently and is in a more balanced, healthy state.
Daily Green Tea: How Much and How to Drink
To keep the brain in shape, scientists recommend consuming green tea regularly. The optimal "dosage" is approximately 800 ml per day, which amounts to about 3–4 cups of freshly brewed tea.
It is essential to follow a few simple rules to maximize the benefits of this beverage:
- Select high-quality loose leaf tea without additives — it contains more beneficial polyphenols, including EGCG.
- Steep green tea not with boiling water, but with water around 75–80°C. At higher temperatures, some valuable substances break down.
- Steep the tea for 2–3 minutes — this is sufficient to extract EGCG and other beneficial components.
- Drink the beverage freshly brewed, not letting it sit for a prolonged period — this way, you will obtain the maximum antioxidants.
- Distribute your daily intake of 3–4 cups in the first half of the day. Avoid strong tea in the evening (especially if you are sensitive to caffeine) to prevent sleep disturbances.
Overall, about four cups of green tea a day is considered a safe norm for healthy adults. In this volume, the beverage fully reveals its beneficial properties.
New Perspectives for Brain Health
Current results pave the way for new strategies to protect the brain from aging. Scientists hope that effective and safe means for preventing dementia and treating Alzheimer's disease can be developed based on EGCG. However, for now, the data has been obtained only under laboratory conditions, and more testing on animals and humans is necessary before recommending EGCG as a medication.
Nevertheless, it is already evident that natural substances can have a powerful positive effect on the brain. Not without reason do observations show that green tea enthusiasts, on average, encounter dementia less frequently. It is now clear why this beverage is so beneficial for the nervous system.
Thus, incorporating several cups of green tea into your daily diet is a simple and accessible way to support your brain, helping to maintain mental clarity and strong memory for many years.
