Daily EGCG Supplement Restores Heart Function to Youthful Levels
Scientists have discovered that a key compound from green tea can protect aging hearts from losing function, potentially offering a simple way to prevent heart problems in older adults. The study found that regular consumption of EGCG, the main beneficial component in green tea, helped maintain normal heart function in aging mice.
When given 100-200mg of EGCG daily in drinking water for six months, older mice maintained heart function similar to young mice. The treatment specifically improved the heart’s ability to relax between beats – a common problem in aging hearts that affects millions worldwide. The mice also showed improved exercise capacity, running up to 58% further than untreated aged mice.
At the cellular level, EGCG worked by protecting heart muscle cells from death and maintaining their internal structure. The compound achieved this by regulating key genes involved in heart function, particularly one called cardiac troponin I. While the lowest tested dose (50mg) showed some benefits, the medium and higher doses demonstrated the most significant improvements.
These findings suggest that regular green tea consumption or EGCG supplements might help maintain heart health with age. Future research will explore optimal dosing for humans and whether these benefits extend to people already experiencing heart problems.
Reference: Quan J, Li Y, Zhang X, et al. The effect of long-term administration of green tea catechins on aging-related cardiac diastolic dysfunction and decline of troponin I. Genes Dis. Published online December 23, 2024. doi:10.1016/j.gendis.2024.101284