Green Tea Shown to Provide Antioxidant Protection for People with Metabolic Syndrome

Many people with metabolic syndrome have low levels of glutathione, which contributes to oxidative stress and plays a key role in the worsening of metabolic syndrome. Glutathione deficiency may also be linked to their increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The study included 35 obese adults who had metabolic syndrome. They were divided into three groups, and for eight weeks consumed one of the following daily:

• four cups of green tea

• four cups of water

• two capsules of green tea extract and four cups of water.

TThe researchers took blood samples at the beginning and end of the study to assess antioxidant levels. After eight weeks of supplementation, the green tea groups saw a 35% increase in whole blood glutathione levels. The participants who received green tea also saw a 55% increase in plasma antioxidant levels. No changes were seen in the control group.

The study was conducted by researchers at Oklahoma State University. It was published online ahead of print on January 30, 2013, in Nutrition Research.

Green tea has been linked in previous studies with a wide range of health benefits. These benefits are usually attributed to the high level of powerful antioxidants found in green tea called polyphenols, which have been shown to promote weight loss, improve heart health, aid in digestion and decrease the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.