Scientists were astounded at how effectively compounds within the drink, once they reached the gut, protected cells from attack, reports express.co.uk.
The green tea not only battled against toxins that allow plaques to build up in the brain, which lead to Alzheimer's, but it also stopped cancer cells from dividing.
The research by Newcastle University was carried out only on cells in a laboratory but scientists insist this provides an insight into how the tea will work in our bodies.
Ed Okello, from the university's School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, said: "What was really exciting about this study was that we found, when green tea is digested by enzymesin the gut, the resulting chemicals are actually more effective against key triggers of Alzheimer's development than the undigested form of the tea."
"In addition, we found the digested compounds had anti-cancer properties, significantly slowing down the growth of the tumour cells which we were using in our experiments," he added.
The only problem with the results is the huge amounts of green tea should be drunk to gain the same effects.
But Okello pointed out : "There are many factors that together have an influence on diseases such as cancer and dementia - a good diet, plenty of exercise and a healthy lifestyle are all important."
"But it's fair to say that at least one cup of green tea every day may be good for you and I would certainly recommend it," he added.--IANS
The green tea not only battled against toxins that allow plaques to build up in the brain, which lead to Alzheimer's, but it also stopped cancer cells from dividing.
The research by Newcastle University was carried out only on cells in a laboratory but scientists insist this provides an insight into how the tea will work in our bodies.
Ed Okello, from the university's School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, said: "What was really exciting about this study was that we found, when green tea is digested by enzymesin the gut, the resulting chemicals are actually more effective against key triggers of Alzheimer's development than the undigested form of the tea."
"In addition, we found the digested compounds had anti-cancer properties, significantly slowing down the growth of the tumour cells which we were using in our experiments," he added.
The only problem with the results is the huge amounts of green tea should be drunk to gain the same effects.
But Okello pointed out : "There are many factors that together have an influence on diseases such as cancer and dementia - a good diet, plenty of exercise and a healthy lifestyle are all important."
"But it's fair to say that at least one cup of green tea every day may be good for you and I would certainly recommend it," he added.--IANS