Green tea, Alzheimer's, and cancer

Scientists at Newcastle University recently published a study indicating protective properties of green tea. Dr. Okello, of the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development at Newcastle, explained how the enzymes in the digestive system produced chemicals more effective against key triggers of Alzheimer's development than the undigested form of green tea. This was made possible by the loan of a simulated digestive system not available until now. From the Science Daily article:        

"As part of the research, the Newcastle team worked in collaboration with Dr Gordon McDougall of the Plant Products and Food Quality Group at the Scottish Crop Research Institute in Dundee, who developed technology which simulates the human digestive system. Previous studies have shown that compounds known as polyphenols, present in black and green tea, possess neuroprotective properties, binding with the toxic compounds - hydrogen peroxide and beta-amyloid - and protecting the brain cells."  

Also noted was the anticancer properties of the digested compounds of the tea, which were able to slow down the growth of tumors used in their experiments. The wonders of green tea continue to astound and amaze the scientific community.

Black or green tea was the beverage of choice served by mothers for decades until sodas slowly took over. Could drinking tea be the answer to obesity, as well as a cancer prohibitor and an answer to the Alzheimer's puzzle?

An informal survey of Blairsville residents shows sodas beat iced-tea by two to one by those twenty-two and younger.

Source: Newcastle University (2011, January 6). Protective properties of green tea uncovered.