Drinking green tea could help prevent dementia, says study

Researchers tested the effect of a component of green tea, CAGTE once it had been digested, to see how it affected a key protein in Alzheimer's disease. The study showed that at high concentrations, CAGTE protected the cells from the toxic effects of the protein amyloid-beta.

Research has previously suggested that green tea might help prevent Alzheimer's disease although the evidence is inconsistent and as yet any possible mechanism for this is not understood. This research is different as it tested the green tea chemical in its digested form as it would be available in the body.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This study adds to previous research that suggests green tea might help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. However, the researchers used a far higher dose of the active green tea chemical than would ever be found in the human body. More research is needed to see whether green tea is protective at a much lower dose, and to understand the mechanism involved.'

'Antioxidants, found in fruit, vegetables and green tea, should be part of a normal healthy diet. Research has shown that the best way to reduce your risk of developing dementia is to eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, exercise regularly, don't smoke and get your cholesterol and blood pressure regularly checked.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Communications Manager
Alzheimer's Society

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Research Reference: 'In vitro protective effects of colon-available extract of Camellia sinensis (tea) against hydrogen peroxide and beta-amyloid (A(1-42)) induced cytotoxicity in differentiated PC12 cells.' E J Okello et al, published in Phytomedicine.

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk