Scientists Discover: Green Tea Helps Keep the Brain in Shape. Its Component EGCG Cleanses Neurons from Toxic Proteins, Restores Energy, and Improves Memory, Attention, and Mood.
Regular green tea can serve as a natural "booster" for the brain—this is the conclusion drawn by researchers from the University of California. A recent study showed that the main component of green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), can remarkably affect nerve cells.
EGCG literally "reboots" aging neurons: it restores their energy balance and initiates "cellular cleaning" processes—the natural cleansing of cells from toxic proteins (including beta-amyloid, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease). After just one day of such exposure, the brain seems to be cleansed: memory, attention, mood improve, and stress levels decrease. Notably, to maintain this effect, it is sufficient to consume 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 tonic effects. Today, scientific research continues to unveil new facets of its influence on the body. The latest work by scientists, published in the journal GeroScience, revealed an unexpected property of green tea: the antioxidant contained in it, EGCG, turned out to be a powerful stimulant for brain cells.
In laboratory experiments, a combination of EGCG with vitamin B3 (niacinamide) literally revitalized aging neurons, significantly improving their condition. This result surprised researchers and confirmed the reputation of green tea 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—decreases in neurons. Without this "fuel," the functioning of mitochondria suffers, and the self-repair mechanisms of neurons slow down. Consequently, aging cells accumulate damage and lose functions.
However, the addition of EGCG (in conjunction with niacinamide) allowed for the effective rebooting of old neurons. Within just 24 hours of the experiment, the energy balance of the cells was restored almost to a "youthful" level. Neurons once again received a sufficient charge of energy for normal functioning. At the same time, the level of oxidative stress decreased, and cell survival increased—they became less prone to death.
"Cellular Cleaning" of the Brain from Proteins
Another problem with an aging brain is the accumulation of "waste" in cells. When the processes of "cellular cleaning" (such as autophagy) slow down, neurons cease to effectively dispose of defective and toxic proteins. One of the most dangerous is beta-amyloid, a protein that forms plaques in the brain as we age. 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 the mechanism for removing toxic protein aggregates from cells, including the accumulated beta-amyloid. In other words, green tea helps the brain cleanse itself of harmful deposits that interfere with its normal functioning. This "thorough cleaning" significantly reduces the risk of damage and cell death in the brain.
Improving Memory and Mood
The restoration of energy and cleansing of the brain quickly reflect on its performance. Experts note that within just 24 hours, the brain appeared "refreshed." A whole range of positive changes in cognitive function was recorded:
- Improvement in memory (easier to recall information).
- Increased concentration (greater focus).
- Improvement in mood (less anxiety and apathy).
- Reduction of 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.
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 about 800 ml a day, which equates to approximately 3–4 cups of freshly brewed tea.
It is important to adhere to a few simple rules to extract the maximum benefit from this beverage:
- Select high-quality loose leaf tea without additives—it contains more beneficial polyphenols, including EGCG.
- Steep green tea not in boiling water, but in water at about 75–80 °C. At higher temperatures, some valuable substances may break down.
- Let the tea steep for 2–3 minutes—this is sufficient to extract EGCG and other beneficial components.
- Drink the beverage fresh, without letting it sit for long—as this provides the maximum antioxidants.
- Distribute the daily 3–4 cups in the first half of the day. Avoid strong tea in the evening (especially if sensitive to caffeine) to prevent sleep disruption.
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 findings pave the way for new strategies to protect the brain from aging. Scientists hope that effective and safe means of dementia prevention and Alzheimer’s therapy can be developed based on EGCG. However, so far, the data have been obtained only in laboratory conditions, and further studies on animals and humans are necessary before recommending EGCG as a treatment.
Nevertheless, it is already evident that natural substances can have a powerful positive influence on the brain. Observations indicate that green tea lovers, on average, encounter dementia less frequently. It is now becoming clear why this beverage is so beneficial for the nervous system.
Thus, incorporating a few cups of green tea into the daily diet is a simple and affordable means to support one's brain, helping to preserve mental clarity and strong memory for many years.
