Researchers Discover: Green Tea Helps Keep the Brain in Shape. Its Component EGCG Cleans Neurons of Toxic Proteins, Restores Energy, and Improves Memory, Attention, and Mood.
Ordinary green tea can serve as a natural "booster" for the brain — this is the conclusion reached by researchers from the University of California. A recent study showed that the main component of green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), can remarkably impact nerve cells.
EGCG literally "reboots" aging neurons: it restores their energy balance and initiates "cellular clean-up" 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 appears "cleansed": memory, attention, mood improve, and stress levels decrease. Interestingly, to maintain this effect, one only needs to consume about 800 ml of freshly brewed green tea per day.
Natural Stimulator for Neurons
Green tea has long been celebrated for its health benefits and invigorating effects. Today, 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 turns out to be a powerful stimulant 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 reinforced green tea's reputation as a "elixir" for the brain.
Rebooting Aging Neurons
As cells age, brain cells gradually lose their "energy supply." The level of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) — the molecule that serves as an energy source for cellular processes — decreases in neurons. Without this "fuel," mitochondrial function suffers, and the self-repair mechanisms of neurons slow down. Consequently, aging cells accumulate damage and lose function.
However, adding EGCG (in combination with niacinamide) effectively rebooted old neurons. Within just 24 hours of the experiment, the energy balance of the cells was restored almost to "youthful" levels. Neurons received a sufficient energy boost for normal functionality. At the same time, oxidative stress levels decreased, and cell survival rates improved — they became less prone to death.
Brain's "Cellular Clean-Up" of Proteins
Another issue with aging brains is the accumulation of "waste" in cells. When "cellular clean-up" processes (such as autophagy) slow down, neurons fail to effectively dispose of defective and toxic proteins. One of the most dangerous proteins, beta-amyloid, 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 "cellular clean-up" processes in neurons. It initiates the mechanism for expelling toxic protein aggregates, including accumulated beta-amyloid, from cells. In other words, green tea helps the brain cleanse itself of harmful deposits that hinder its normal functioning. This "thorough clean-up" significantly reduces the risk of brain cell damage and death.
Improved Memory and Mood
The restoration of energy and cleansing of the brain quickly reflect on its functionality. Experts note that within just one day, the brain appeared "renewed." A range of positive changes in cognitive functions was documented:
- Improved memory (easier recall of information).
- Increased attention concentration (greater focus).
- Enhanced mood (less anxiety and apathy).
- Reduced stress levels (a sense of calmness).
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. An optimal "dosage" is around 800 ml per day, equivalent to about 3–4 cups of freshly brewed tea.
It is important to follow several simple rules to maximize the benefits of this beverage:
- Choose high-quality loose-leaf tea without additives — it contains more beneficial polyphenols, including EGCG.
- Brew green tea with water around 75–80 °C, rather than boiling water. At higher temperatures, some valuable compounds are destroyed.
- Steep tea for 2–3 minutes — this is sufficient to extract EGCG and other beneficial components.
- Drink the beverage fresh, without leaving it for long — this way, you will get the maximum antioxidants.
- Distribute your daily 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. At this volume, the beverage fully expresses 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 dementia prevention and Alzheimer's therapy can be developed based on EGCG. However, the data has only been obtained under laboratory conditions, and further testing on animals and humans is necessary before recommending EGCG as a medication.
Nevertheless, it is already clear that natural substances can have a powerful positive effect on the brain. Notably, observations show that green tea enthusiasts encounter dementia less frequently on average. It is now evident why this beverage is so beneficial for the nervous system.
Thus, 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 strong memory for many years to come.
