Green tea slows tumour growth

Added 23.09.2009

Compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells

Scientists have now found out that green tea can significantly slow tumour growth by binding to a protein on tumour cells. Green tea has four types of catechins (compounds that have potent antioxidant qualities); but it is one in particular - epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) - that has the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

EGCG does this by binding to 67-kDa laminin receptor, a protein on the surface of cancer cells. According to the study, drinking two to three cups of green tea a day contains the amount of EGCG necessary for this effect. For those of you who don't enjoy green tea or don't want the caffeine, supplements containing caffeine-free green tea extract are a perfect alternative.

References:

• Buy Caffeine-Free Green Tea Extract Supplement