Green tea 'can fight off dementia and could guard against cancer'

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 9:36 AM on 6th January 2011
Green tea could protect the brain against Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, say scientists.
The drink, which originated in ancient China, may also play a vital role in guarding against cancer, their study suggests.
Scientists at Newcastle University set out to discover whether the protective properties of the tea – previously shown to be present in the freshly brewed form – are still active once it has been digested. 
Proven: The scientists at Newcastle University have found that Green tea can help warn off a number of diseases
Proven: The scientists at Newcastle University have found that Green tea can help warn off a number of diseases
Dr Ed Okello, from the university, said: ‘What was really exciting was that we found when green tea is digested, the resulting chemicals are actually more effective against key triggers of Alzheimer’s. 
The digested compounds also had anti-cancer properties, significantly slowing down the growth of tumour cells which we were using in our experiments.’ 
Two compounds are known to play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer’s – hydrogen peroxide and a protein known as beta-amyloid. 
Cup of goodness: Used by the ancient Chinese for health - and it is still healthy now
Cup of goodness: Used by the ancient Chinese for health - and it is still healthy now
Previous studies have shown that polyphenols, present in black and green tea, bind with the toxic compounds and protect brain cells.
When ingested, the polyphenols are broken down to produce a mix of compounds and it was these the team tested in their research, published in the academic journal Phytomedicine. 
Dr Okello added: ‘Green tea has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and what we have here provides the scientific evidence why it may be effective against some of the key diseases we face today. 
‘There are obviously many factors which together have an influence on diseases such as cancer and dementia – a good diet, plenty of exercise and a healthy lifestyle are all important.
‘But I think it’s fair to say that at least one cup of green tea a day may be good for you and I would certainly recommend it.’
Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the charity Alzheimer’s Research Trust, said: ‘Diet and lifestyle almost certainly play a part in every person’s Alzheimer’s risk.’