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Cathy Wong

Green Tea May Fight Autoimmune Disease

By , About.com GuideJune 13, 2011

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An antioxidant found in green tea may help enhance immune function, according to preliminary research published in the journal Immunology Letters.

In a series of lab experiments, scientists discovered that a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) helped rev up production of regulatory T cells (a type of cell known to suppress autoimmune disease). Given this finding, the study's authors suggest that green tea may help control autoimmune disorders (such as allergies and type 1 diabetes). However, more research needs to be conducted before green tea can be recommended in the treatment or prevention of any autoimmune disease.

Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, green tea may help protect against several other conditions. For instance, previously published studies suggest that drinking green tea could aid in type 2 diabetes prevention, keep cholesterol in check, fight uterine fibroids, and guard against depression.

Comments
July 10, 2011 at 3:12 pm
(1) Jacqueline :

Sounds promising! Tea, not just green, has amazing properties, http://www.womentowomen.com/healthyaging/healthbenefitsoftea.aspx, that protect our bodies from cell damage and fight aging. With so many benefits, I can’t understand why coffee is the preferred drink of choice in the U.S.!!!

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