[PHNUTR-L] Green tea and the 'Asian Paradox'

[Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD]

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Public release date: 6-Jun-2006
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2006-06/yu-gta060606.php

Contact: Jacqueline Weaver
jacqueline.weaver at yale.edu
203-432-8555
Yale University

Green tea and the 'Asian Paradox'

New Haven, Conn. – There is a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease 
and cancer in Asia where people smoke heavily, which may be accounted 
for by high consumption of tea, particularly green tea, according to a 
review article published by a Yale School of Medicine researcher.

"We do not yet have a full explanation for the 'Asian paradox,' which 
refers to the very low incidence of both heart disease and cancer in 
Asia, even though consumption of cigarettes is greater than in most 
other countries," said Bauer Sumpio, M.D., professor and Chief of 
Vascular Surgery in the Department of Surgery. "But we now have some 
theories."

Sumpio, the lead author of the review in the Journal of the American 
College of Surgeons, said he and his colleagues reviewed more than 100 
experimental and clinical studies about green tea in writing the article.

He said one theory is that the average 1.2 liters of green tea consumed 
daily by many people in Asia offers the anti-oxidant protective effects 
of the polyphenolic EGCG. EGCG may prevent LDL oxidation, which has been 
shown to play a key role in the pathophysiology of arteriosclerosis. 
EGCG also reduces the amount of platelet aggregation, regulates lipids, 
and promotes proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells, which 
are all factors in reducing cardiovascular disease, he said.

Sumpio said other reports show that EGCG prevents growth of certain 
tumors. Tea, according to studies, also can improve gastrointestinal 
function, alcohol metabolism, kidney, liver and pancreatic function, 
protect skin and eyes and alleviate arthritis. Tea has been used in 
managing and preventing allergies, diabetes, bacterial and viral 
infections, cavities, reduce or cure diseases with an inflammatory 
component and improve neurologic and psychological health.

"More studies are necessary to fully elucidate and better understand 
green tea's method of action, particularly at the cellular level," 
Sumpio said. "The evidence is strong that green tea consumption is a 
useful dietary habit to lower the risk for, as well as treat, a number 
of chronic diseases. Certainly, however, smoking cessation is the best 
way to prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer."
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Journal of the American College of Surgeons 202: 813-825 (May 2006)
-- 
Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD < fivestar at nutritionucanlivewith.com >
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