According to a study published in Current Developments in Nutrition on June 14, green tea may lower blood sugar levels and improve gut health.
The researchers at Ohio State University studied 40 participants who consumed five cups of green tea daily for 28 days by eating green tea extract gummies. The Mayo Clinic reported 19 healthy participants, while 21 had metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
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They received either green tea extract or a placebo for 28 days but didn’t know which one they got. Participants ate low-polyphenol foods during green tea and placebo periods to control for the potential benefits of other foods that could replace the green tea extract.
More than a third of Americans suffer from metabolic syndrome, which increases their risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Blood sugar levels, gut inflammation, and gut permeability were decreased in participants with and without metabolic syndrome by green tea extract. The Cleveland Clinic defines gut permeability as the ability of the intestines to absorb water and nutrients.
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Researchers believe green tea’s anti-inflammatory chemicals, catechins, can boost gut health and help control blood sugar. The findings are particularly promising for people with metabolic syndrome since inflammation and high blood sugar levels are contributing factors.
Dr. Joanna Hodges, a study coauthor, told Insider that future studies should determine the amount of green tea extract that is most beneficial without adverse effects. Additionally, more research is needed to determine whether green tea extract can benefit other intestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.