A lot of people prefer to drink green tea as a weight loss supplement. In fact, due to its health benefits, it has become increasingly popular over the years.
A study suggests long-term consumption of green tea extract may protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, but it may also cause liver damage in some people.
Green tea extract comes in a variety of forms, such as capsules, pills, powders, and liquids. Although similar formulations often contain the same amounts of active constituents, there is one constituent, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). A daily dose of green tea extract can contain up to 1000 mg of EGCG, depending on the formulation. According to a recent European Food Safety Authority safety assessment, Green tea extract contains EGCG in quantities of 5 mg to 1000 mg per daily dose. Green tea supplements containing more than 800 mg of EGCG a day increased the risk of liver damage.
A study published in "Food and Chemical Toxicology" in February 2005 found that people who have taken green tea extract supplements have developed liver problems. In order to test the validity of this claim, researchers gave rats green tea extract. Researchers found that high concentrations caused toxicity in the rats' liver cells, leading them to conclude that excessive green tea extract may lead to liver damage.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea extract should be taken in quantities between 100 and 750 milligrams a day. Drinking a little tea every day is probably safe, as long as you don't overdo it and drink too much of it.
If you consume green tea as a supplement you should consult your physician before making it a part of your diet and try to take it within the limit. You should always be cautious since even natural compounds might have major adverse effects.
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