Green tea extract is a dietary supplement made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, a type of evergreen shrub native to East Asia. The extract is rich in antioxidants such as catechins and polyphenols, which may provide numerous health benefits including improved cardiovascular health, achieving and maintaining a healthy Body Mass index, supporting cell health, and more.

The first recorded era of using green tea extract for health benefits dates to ancient China over 5,000 years ago. It was believed that drinking green tea could help improve energy levels and overall well-being. Since then, numerous studies have investigated the potential health benefits of green tea extract and its active ingredients, demonstrating its effectiveness in promoting good health.

With abundant health benefits, tea is a powerhouse beverage full of antioxidants, which is very important if you have SNPs (variants) on genes including APOB, EPHX1, SOD2, and TNF-a.

Known for their health-supporting properties, polyphenols—known as flavonoids in some circles—are largely responsible for making this beloved drink so nourishing. Flavonoids are plant compounds that act as antioxidants, helping to prevent cell damage and support healthy inflammatory responses in the body (see your healthy inflammatory report for more details).

Catechins are the most abundant type of antioxidant found in green tea and have been linked to numerous health benefits including heart health, healthy inflammatory responses, and better blood sugar control. Polyphenols are also powerful antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage and reduce oxidative stress. Green tea extract contains all these antioxidant-rich compounds, making it a powerful health supplement.

Studies have revealed that all types – black, green, and oolong teas (minus decaffeinated) contain similar levels of these vital compounds even if they’re presented differently or at different ratios across the board; while epigallocatechin-3 gallate takes center stage among the greens and reds favor Theaflavins.

Herbal teas also provide well on antioxidative components but can vary greatly depending on the source plant used – each unique.

When it comes to tea, black and green teas are processed differently. In terms of health implications, the differences in processing can be significant. For example, while black tea is usually oxidized and fermented, green tea is produced without oxidation or fermentation. This impacts the types of compounds present in the teas and their potential health benefits.

It should also be noted that processing can differ between regions and varieties within specific types of tea.

Despite the numerous health benefits, teas (including green tea) can contain toxins, such as mycotoxins and pesticides. Genetic factors, such as GSTP1, CYP11B2 and EPHX1 expression, can affect how your body metabolizes these toxins. Healthcare professionals can better assess potential risks associated with different teas by understanding what genetic variants are involved in detoxification processes.

Green tea and metabolic support

Diabetes is quickly becoming a global epidemic, but we can potentially disrupt its impact with green tea’s powerful antioxidant EGCG. The health benefits of EGCG – including increased satiety, improved insulin sensitivity, and better regulation of blood sugar levels – work together to help support a healthy blood sugar response.

Green tea and healthy Body Mass Index

Rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and containing zero calories, studies have shown that regular consumption of this beverage increases fat-burning processes within the body. In addition, it can boost metabolism, which helps reduce weight over time. Furthermore, evidence has unveiled its ability to increase heat production leading to an even more significant boost in caloric expenditure.

Green tea and healthy blood pressure

Green tea is nothing short of miraculous when it comes to reducing blood pressure levels! Thanks to its highly potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components, green tea helps decrease vascular oxidative stress and soothe muscles for improved relaxation. Studies have confirmed that regular consumption can reduce systolic by 6.6% and diastolic blood pressure by a remarkable 5.1%.

Green tea and brain function/mood

Green tea consumption can improve memory, as studies have shown. This is unsurprising as green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that helps improve brain function, cognition, mood, and attention. Green tea also helps suppress brain dysfunction with the help of its neuroprotective properties, like the synthesis of new neurites to stimulate the brain.

A growing body of scientific evidence supports the potential health benefits of green tea extract and its active ingredients. For example, a review of over 100 studies found that green tea consumption was associated with a lower risk of death from any cause and improved cognitive function and blood pressure control. Additionally, a 2016 systematic review indicated that green tea extract may help reduce body fat mass.

Green tea and healthy inflammatory response

Your body’s wellness is dependent on a balanced inflammatory response. Green tea and its potent antioxidant – EGCG – surpasses vitamins C and E in supporting joint health and healthy inflammatory response.

Green tea and healthy immune response

Green tea’s polyphenol antioxidants, especially catechins, can help support a healthy immune response. Studies have shown that these compounds can increase the body’s production of infection-fighting cells like T-cells and natural killer cells, which can help support a healthy inflammatory response and protect against viruses and bacteria. In addition, green tea has antiviral properties, as it contains compounds that can inhibit the replication of viruses. Finally, green tea is also high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help to strengthen the body’s immune system and fight off colds and flu. These properties make green tea a powerful alternative ally for supporting a healthy immune response.

Green tea and safety

Side effects of green tea consumption are primarily due to caffeine.

Fortunately, for those getting green tea extract in their DNA-personalized supplement, CODE Complex contains no detectable levels of caffeine (while still supporting healthy energy, mood, focus, and clarity!).

For those interested in drinking green tea, here are some things to know:

Green tea is generally safe for adults, but some people should avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and those with an allergy to caffeine should not take green tea extract. Green tea extract is generally safe and well-tolerated when taken in recommended doses. Still, it may cause side effects in some people, such as nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, headaches, and insomnia. If you experience adverse reactions after taking green tea extract, stop using it immediately and consult your healthcare provider. Additionally, it’s important to take green tea extract with caution if you have existing medical conditions or take medications that may interact with the supplement.

Green tea extract may be an effective way to boost your health and well-being. However, it is not a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Note: All CODE Complex formulations containing green tea extract are caffeine-free. 

Does your genetic CODE call for green tea extract?

While nearly all genetic types benefit from green tea, those with APOB, EPHX1, SOD2, and TNF-a variants significantly benefit from this much-studied superfood.

That’s why people with variants on these four genes receive scientifically-validated amounts of green tea extract (Camellia sinensis) in their custom-formulated CODE Complex.

Unsure of what your genetics reveal about the nutrients YOUR BODY needs?

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developed to support your body where your body says it needs it.