Green Tea Consumption May Protect the Aging Brain

A new report from Science of Food highlights a promising connection between green tea habits and healthier brain aging in older adults. Researchers studied community dwelling adults in Japan and found that people who drank more green tea tended to show fewer cerebral white matter lesions, which are early markers tied to future dementia risk (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Green tea consumption and cerebral white matter lesions in community-dwelling older adults without dementia

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White Matter Lesions And Green Tea Consumption

The study showed that older adults who consumed around three cups of green tea per day had noticeably fewer white matter lesions than those who drank very little. At higher intakes such as seven to eight cups daily, lesion levels were even lower, suggesting a steady protective trend. Coffee intake did not show a similar benefit and did not appear to influence white matter lesions or brain volume in the same way. These findings point to a possible brain supporting effect of green tea that becomes stronger with greater daily consumption.

Green Tea Benefits For Brain Health In Older Adults

Researchers evaluated 8766 older adults without dementia and examined their brain scans alongside their daily beverage intake. What they consistently observed was a meaningful link between higher green tea intake and healthier appearing white matter. White matter lesions tend to increase with age and are associated with cognitive decline and forms of dementia, so even small reductions can matter over time. Coffee drinkers showed no measurable change i in these areas, highlighting a unique advantage linked specifically to green tea.

How Green Tea Catechins Support Healthy Brain Aging

Green tea contains catechins, including epigallocatechin gallate, known for strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help support blood vessel health and may reduce high blood pressure which is a major contributor to white matter changes. The study authors point out that improved vascular health could be one reason why regular green tea drinkers show lower lesion levels on MRI scans. While the study is observational, the pattern was consistent even after accounting for lifestyle habits such as exercise, cholesterol levels, BMI, smoking, and alcohol use.

Genetic Factors And Mood Influences In Green Tea Brain Health Benefits

An interesting detail emerged during subgroup analysis. The protective effect of green tea appeared strongest in people without depression and in individuals who do not carry the ApoE ε4 gene, a well known genetic risk marker for Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers suggest that stronger underlying risk factors may outweigh any subtle benefits from green tea in these groups.

Healthy Brain Aging Takeaway For Older Adults

For older adults looking to support long term brain health, regularly drinking green tea may offer a simple lifestyle habit with potential benefits. While more research is needed to confirm cause and effect, these findings add to a growing body of evidence that everyday food and drink choices may shape how the brain ages.

If adding green tea helps you feel more in control of your wellness journey, it may be a habit worth embracing today.

Reference:

1. Green tea consumption and cerebral white matter lesions in community-dwelling older adults without dementia - (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41538-024-00364-w)

Source-Medindia