Catechins are a class of phenolic compounds known for their antioxidant properties and are abundant in various natural sources such as berries, tea and cocoa. These polyphenols include proanthocyanidins, quercetin, isoflavones and catechins, which are important components of the health benefits of these foods. Catechins have a variety of health benefits such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antihypertensive and lipid-lowering effects and are widely used in food, health products and medicine. Catechins are also believed to have preventive and auxiliary therapeutic effects on cardiovascular disease, cancer, Alzheimer's disease and other diseases.
Structure of Catechins
Catechins belong to the flavan-3-ol class of the flavonoid family and have a unique molecular structure. They consist of two benzene rings (A and B), a dihydropyran heterocycle (C), and chiral centers at carbons 2 and 3. This structural complexity enables catechins to exhibit a variety of biological activities, which is crucial to their health-promoting effects. The structure of C ((-)-catechin) is shown on the right.
Characteristics of Catechins
- An antioxidant naturally present in tea leaves, it has a strong antioxidant effect and helps protect cells from free radical damage.
- Catechins have anti-inflammatory effects, can reduce inflammatory responses, and help relieve inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
- Catechins can promote fat oxidation, help increase metabolic rate and burn fat, and help lose weight and control weight.
- Catechins are highly stable compounds that can maintain antioxidant activity at high temperatures and are suitable for processing and making various health foods and health products.
Sources of Catechins
Catechins are naturally present in various plant foods, mainly in the young leaves and buds of tea plants, with tea leaves, berries and cocoa being the most abundant sources. The catechins in tea mainly come from the catechin raw materials synthesized during the photosynthesis of tea plants.
- Cocoa
- Prune juice
- Fava bean pods
- Acai palm
- Green tea
- Vinegar
Benefits of Catechins for Human Health
Catechins are powerful antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. By doing so, they help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of various chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Research shows that catechins, especially those found in tea, have anticancer properties. They have been linked to inhibiting tumor growth, preventing metastasis, and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. These findings highlight the potential of catechins as a natural remedy for cancer prevention and treatment.
Catechins have cardiovascular benefits such as lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving endothelial function. These effects help maintain heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease.
Catechins help manage weight and improve metabolic health. Studies have shown that catechins can enhance fat oxidation, increase energy expenditure, and regulate blood sugar levels, making them valuable for people looking to maintain a healthy weight and prevent metabolic disorders.
Reference
- Bae, Joonseo, et al. Activity of catechins and their applications. Biomedical Dermatology 2020, 4: 1-10.
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