Key Takeaways
- A compound found in green tea, known as EGCG, combined with vitamin B3 may enhance energy levels and reduce harmful protein accumulation associated with Alzheimer’s disease in mouse brain cells.
- However, taking vitamin B3 supplements orally might not deliver the same cognitive benefits, as it tends to break down in the digestive system before reaching the brain. Following a nutrient-rich diet, such as the MIND diet, may assist in lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Recent animal research indicates that a treatment combining the green tea antioxidant with nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) could rejuvenate aging brain cells and clear protein plaques linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
- Prior research involving humans has also connected green tea and vitamin B3 from food sources with improved cognitive health.
What Did the Study Find?
This new study, published in GeroScience, found that the combination of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea and nicotinamide (vitamin B3) successfully restored guanosine triphosphate (GTP) levels in mouse brain cells.
GTP, an essential energy molecule, tends to diminish with age, and low levels of this compound have been associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
After 24 hours of treatment using EGCG and vitamin B3, the GTP levels in the brains of these mice approached that of younger cells. The restored GTP levels aided in reducing oxidative stress and helped eliminate toxic amyloid protein clumps that can lead to Alzheimer’s.
While these results are encouraging, it’s premature to recommend supplements of green tea and vitamin B3 for improving brain health.
Why EGCG and B3 Supplements Won’t Improve Brain Cells
Taking oral supplements of EGCG and vitamin B3 probably won’t enhance cognitive function or treat Alzheimer’s.
Gregory J. Brewer, PhD, the lead researcher of the study and a professor in biomedical engineering at the University of California, Irvine, previously identified that oral vitamin B3 supplements were ineffective against early-stage Alzheimer’s in a recent trial.
Brewer explained that gut bacteria often destroy vitamin B3 before it has the chance to reach the brain. Increased research is necessary, but there may be potential for more effective delivery methods, such as a patch, nasal spray, or sublingual supplement.
What About Just Drinking Green Tea?
Some studies propose that drinking green tea may enhance memory, alleviate anxiety, lower blood pressure, and possibly protect against dementia. This beverage offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective advantages.
A recent observational study involving 8,766 adults without dementia found a connection between regular green tea consumption and a reduction in cerebral white matter lesions, which are associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Coffee did not yield the same positive effects.
However, Brewer noted that simply consuming green tea won’t achieve the benefits witnessed in his research, as both green tea and nicotinamide are necessary for enhancing energy supply.
“To sustain neuron health and functionality crucial for memory, a significant energy supply is required. We need both protective measures and an adequate energy source,” he stated.
Can Diet Make a Difference?
Research has indicated a link between dietary vitamin B3 and cognitive function. Instead of concentrating solely on this nutrient, it’s more effective to adopt dietary patterns that may lower Alzheimer’s risk, according to Vanessa King, MS, a registered dietitian nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
For instance, the MIND diet was specifically designed to reduce Alzheimer’s risk. This dietary approach includes leafy greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, seafood, poultry, and extra virgin olive oil. Many of these foods are excellent sources of vitamin B3.
