Green Tea Extract (EGCG) for Post-Meal Glucose Control
Green tea catechins have small, inconsistent effects on glucose handling.
Overview
Verdict
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- 300-500mg catechins/day
- Expected timeframe
- 8-12 weeks
Protocol
- form
- Not applicable
- duration
- Not applicable
- co factor
- Evidence is insufficient. Green tea catechins inhibit alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase in vitro and reduce intestinal glucose transport, which predicts blunted post-meal glucose peaks. Human results do not bear this out consistently: some acute studies show reduced glycaemic response when green tea or extract is taken with a carbohydrate load, others show no effect or even higher glucose and insulin, and meta-analyses of longer trials find small and unreliable changes in fasting glucose and HbA1c. Trials vary in catechin dose, timing relative to the meal, and population. If post-meal glucose is the target, meal composition, protein and fibre content, walking after meals, and where indicated acarbose or metformin have far stronger evidence.
- titration
- Not applicable
- starting dose
- Not applicable as an established treatment
Evidence
What the studies say
No studies are yet linked to both Green Tea Extract (EGCG) and Post-Meal Glucose Control.
Safety
Caveats
High-dose concentrated extracts carry a rare risk of liver injury; drink the tea instead where possible.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.