Researchers Discover: Green Tea Helps Keep the Brain Fit. Its Component EGCG Cleanses Neurons of Toxic Proteins, Restores Energy, and Improves Memory, Attention, and Mood.
Regular green tea may serve as a natural "doping" for the brain — this is the conclusion drawn by scientists from the University of California. Recent research has shown 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 processes of "cellular cleaning" — the natural cleansing of cells from toxic proteins (including beta-amyloid, a key factor in Alzheimer’s disease). Within just one day of such exposure, the brain seems to be cleansed: improving memory, attention, mood, and reducing stress levels. To maintain this effect, it is sufficient to drink about 800 ml of freshly brewed green tea daily.
A Natural Stimulator for Neurons
Green tea has long been renowned for its beneficial properties and invigorating effects. In recent times, scientific studies continue to unveil new facets of its impact on the body. The latest work by researchers, published in the journal GeroScience, revealed an unexpected property of green tea: the antioxidant EGCG contained in it turned 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 confirmed the reputation of green tea as a "elixir" for the brain.
Rebooting Aging Neurons
With age, brain cells gradually lose their "energy supply." Neurons experience a decrease in the level of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) — a molecule that serves as the source of energy for cellular processes. Without this "fuel," mitochondrial function suffers and the self-repair mechanisms of the neuron slow down. As a result, aging cells accumulate damage and lose their functions.
However, the addition of EGCG (in conjunction with niacinamide) allowed for the effective rebooting of old neurons. In just 24 hours of experimentation, the energy balance of the cells was restored almost to a "youthful" level. Neurons once again received enough energy to function normally. Simultaneously, oxidative stress levels decreased, and cell survival increased — they became less prone to death.
"Cellular Cleaning" of the Brain from Proteins
Another issue facing 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, with age, forms plaques in the brain. 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 cleaning" 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 hinder its normal function. 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 rapidly reflect on its performance. Experts note that after just one day, the brain appeared "renewed." A series of positive changes were observed in cognitive functions:
- Improved memory (easier recall of information).
- Increased concentration (greater focus).
- Improved mood (less anxiety and apathy).
- Reduced stress levels (a sense of calm).
Collectively, these changes mean that the brain begins to function more efficiently and is in a more balanced, healthier state.
Daily Green Tea: How Much and How to Drink
To keep the brain fit, scientists recommend regularly consuming green tea. The optimal "dosage" is about 800 ml per day, which is roughly 3-4 cups of freshly brewed tea.
It is important to adhere to a few simple rules to maximize the benefits of this drink:
- Choose quality loose-leaf tea without additives — it contains more beneficial polyphenols, including EGCG.
- Brew green tea with water around 75–80 °C, not with boiling water. At higher temperatures, some beneficial compounds are destroyed.
- Steep the tea for 2–3 minutes — this is enough to extract EGCG and other beneficial components.
- Drink the beverage fresh, without letting it steep for too long — this way you will get the most antioxidants.
- Distribute your 3-4 cups over the first half of the day. Avoid strong tea in the evening (especially if you are sensitive to caffeine) to prevent sleep disturbance.
Overall, about four cups of green tea per day is considered a safe norm for healthy adults. In this volume, the drink fully reveals its beneficial properties.
New Perspectives for Brain Health
Current results pave the way for new strategies to protect the brain from aging. Researchers hope that effective and safe means for the prevention of dementia and therapy for Alzheimer’s disease can be developed based on EGCG. However, the data has so far been obtained only in laboratory conditions, and further testing on animals and humans is necessary before recommending EGCG as a drug.
Nevertheless, it is already evident: natural substances can exert a powerful positive influence on the brain. It is no coincidence that observations show that green tea enthusiasts tend to experience dementia less often. It is now clear why this beverage is so beneficial for the nervous system.
Therefore, incorporating several cups of green tea into your daily diet is a simple and accessible means to support your brain, helping to maintain mental clarity and strong memory for many years to come.
