Hong Kong, China – A study from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry offers evidence that green tea may promote bone health. Clinicians believe green tea contains chemicals that can stimulate the bone formation process, thereby reducing its breakdown.

Researchers exposed to osteoblasts (cells that form bones) to three main green tea components; epigallocatechin (EGC), gallocatechin (GC) and gallocatechin gallate (GCG). The team reported that EGC stimulated the activity of a major enzyme that increased bone growth up to 79%. Furthermore, EGC “significantly increased” bone mineralization. And, the trial revealed that high amounts of ECG blocked the activity of a type of osteoclasts that is responsible for weakening bones.

In terms overall health, the study affirmed that EGC has a positive dual-effect on bones by promoting osteoblast activity and inhibiting osteoclasts. Drinking Green tea appears to be beneficial for those concerned about osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Whole Foods, November 2009