Green Tea and Cancer

Scientists have discovered that some organic chemical compounds, known as antioxidants, can effectively combat the free radicals that harm the cells and their DNA and cause aging. In turn, these can protect you from various diseases, including cancer, which is associated with the growth of abnormal cells. Green tea is a plant which is abundant in antioxidants. These chemical compounds are excellently preserved in its leaves, because of the way in which they are processed.

That is why researchers are making numerous experiments to find out how exactly green tea can protect you from cancer. The results are not always conclusive, but more and more studies confirm that the antioxidants in the plant can be effective for the prevention and treatment of certain types of cancer.

Some of the most extensive studies of green tea have been performed on patients suffering from breast cancer. The results show that women who consume the beverage are around two times less likely to develop this dangerous condition. Patients who already have it are treated more effectively when they drink green tea.

The powerful antioxidant EGCG, contained in the leaves of the plant, inhibits the growth of tumor cells. In addition, the polyphenols present in green tea block the receipt of estrogen by the affected cells. In turn, their growth is further inhibited. This property of green tea makes it effective for ovarian cancer as well as for breast cancer.

Several studies on humans have revealed that the people who consume green tea are less likely to develop colorectal cancer. The effect is particularly strong in women. Scientists have found that green tea can protect you from colorectal cancer because its chemical compounds can destroy some of the most dangerous bacteria, which cause it.

One study done on people has found that the consumption of green tea reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer significantly, with 37% in men and with 50% in women. Other studies have discovered that the antioxidants in green tea protect the lining of the liver and regulate its production of enzymes. In turn, the risk of liver cancer for green tea drinkers is lower.

Green tea contains antioxidants which protect us from the harmful UV rays of the sun. In addition, EGCG inhibits the growth of cancer cells and has an anti-inflammatory effect. As a result, it can protect you from skin cancer effectively.

There are studies which reveal that green tea can prevent stomach, lung, prostate and bladder cancer, but the results are still awaiting larger confirmation.