April 2007: Epigallocatechin gallate
Epigallocatechin gallate (EG) is an aromatic compound found in green tea. The term
aromatic originally referred to substances with pleasant aromas, but today
aromatic describes molecules like benzene that contain hexagonal rings of carbon atoms.
EG is described as a
polyphenol (meaning that its molecular structure has benzene rings with multiple OH groups) and as a
bioflavonoid (a biologically active substance found in plants).
Green tea has been consumed in the Middle East for centuries; however, the tea drinkers were not aware of the presence of EG nor of its cancer-preventing qualities. Nevertheless, the low cancer and mortality rates of people in these countries testify to EG’s benefits.
EG is believed to be the most potent
catechin in green tea. Its many hydroxyl groups make it an
antioxidant.
Free radicals are unstable, highly-reactive molecules in which an atom has an incomplete set of valence electrons. Free radicals are harmful because they can react with biological molecules, especially DNA. Antioxidants like EG react with free radicals, reducing the possibility of mutations that could lead to cancer.
Epigallocatechin gallate can help prevent cancer if a person consumes the equivalent of 3-4 cups of tea per day. EG is found in green tea and in products that contain green tea, such as Kit-Kat bars and certain dietary supplements.
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