Diet and Nutrition: Temperance in Green Tea
2007
The Risks of Green Tea Supplements
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Mead M. Nathaniel, Joshua Lambert, Chung S. Yang
Primary Institution: Rutgers University
Hypothesis
Are high doses of green tea polyphenols harmful to health?
Conclusion
High doses of green tea supplements may lead to liver toxicity and other health risks.
Supporting Evidence
- High doses of EGCG can cause liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal toxicities.
- Nine anecdotal case reports of liver toxicity in humans have been associated with high doses of green tea supplements.
- Some individuals may have a genetic polymorphism that increases their risk of oxidative stress from EGCG.
Takeaway
Drinking a little green tea is good for you, but taking too much in supplements can make you sick.
Methodology
Review of existing studies and case reports on green tea polyphenols and their effects.
Potential Biases
Anecdotal evidence may not represent the broader population's experience.
Limitations
No published epidemiologic studies on the toxicity of green tea supplements exist.
Participant Demographics
Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition affecting their response to green tea.
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