Antioxidant protection: EGCG exhibits potent free radical scavenging capabilities, protecting cellular structures from oxidative damage and supporting DNA integrity.
Cellular health support: EGCG promotes optimal cellular function and helps maintain the body's natural defense systems against age-related decline.
Metabolic optimization: EGCG supports healthy energy metabolism and cellular energy homeostasis through multiple molecular pathways.
While EGCG from green tea is one of the most protective molecules available, it's also one of the least bioavailable. Liposomal delivery improves bioavailability over 90%, allowing your body to make far better use of this powerful ingredient.
10X More Bioavailable than Regular Extract in a Clinical Trial
The bioavailability of standard green tea catechins is quite low, around 1.68% in humans (1). To address this issue, researchers compared standard delivery to an advanced dry liposomal delivery system.
This delivery system improves the bioavailability of green tea extract for better absorption and a slower release into the bloodstream.
A small clinical study tested the bioavailability of liposomal green tea extract against standard green tea.
Participants took either standard green tea or liposomal extract (200mg) twice daily for two separate periods. Blood samples were measured for 24 hours after each dose to compare their absorption.
Results of the study showed that the liposomal green tea extract demonstrated several advantages when compared to conventional green tea extract:
- Provided 12 times greater concentration of catechins than standard green tea extract.
- Delivered all eight catechins in green tea, while only one was detected in the standard extract
- Provided 10 times more EGCG in the blood, the most potent catechin.
- Sustained catechins in the bloodstream for 24 hours, compared to 6 hours for standard extracts. This allows for just one dose per day, unlike standard extracts.
“The higher the catechins content in tea, the higher the antioxidant activity.” (2)
Powerful Polyphenol Protection
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is remarkably rich in polyphenols, particularly catechin derivatives, which serve as powerful protective compounds against the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species and free radicals.
The polyphenolic profile of green tea is predominantly composed of four major catechins:
- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)
- Epigallocatechin (EGC)
- Epicatechin gallate (ECG)
- Epicatechin (EC)
EGCG representsing the most abundant and bioactive component in green tea. This flavonoid compound possesses exceptionally potent antioxidant properties due to its unique molecular structure, which enable it to effectively scavenge superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide in a dose-dependent manner.
EGCG demonstrates superior reactive oxygen species scavenging activity compared to ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Through direct radical scavenging mechanisms and the upregulation of phase II antioxidant enzymes, EGCG shields cellular structures from oxidative stress damage, protects DNA integrity, and maintains cellular homeostasis by terminating free radical chain reactions that would otherwise compromise cellular function and accelerate aging processes.
Complete Catechin Profile for Broad-Spectrum Benefits
LIPO EGCG Green Tea delivers all eight catechins naturally found in green tea, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), recognized for its potent antioxidant properties. By providing a full catechin profile, you are taking advantage of the entourage effect, where the bioactive molecules that are naturally present together in the plant remain together in the final formula, emulating and amplifying the green tea experience.
Potent Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support
Green tea catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are known for their potent antioxidant properties, which help to protect cellular structures by neutralizing free radicals - unstable molecules that can damage cellular components such as proteins, lipids, and DNA. By scavenging these reactive oxygen species (ROS), EGCG protects against oxidative stress, which is often linked to DNA damage and cellular aging. (3)
On a molecular level, EGCG and other catechins influence transcription factors involved in inflammation, including nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB). NF-kB is a protein complex that regulates the expression of various pro-inflammatory genes. Catechins appear to inhibit NF-kB activation by modulating upstream signaling pathways, minimizing the overexpression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. This mechanism of action contributes to a balanced inflammatory response, which is necessary for cellular resilience and may additionally protect against the impact of oxidative stress over time.
Studies also indicate that catechins may support the body’s own antioxidant enzyme systems, such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, further reinforcing the body’s defense against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Brain Health and Cognitive Support
The neuroprotective potential of green tea catechins is an exciting development for those who are concerned about protecting their brain health as they age. EGCG and other catechins are believed to cross the blood-brain barrier, enabling them to interact directly with neuronal cells.
Research suggests that catechins support brain health through several mechanisms, including the modulation of neuroinflammation, the promotion of neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons), and the protection of synaptic plasticity, which is vital for memory and learning. (4)
Catechins have also been shown to modulate specific cell-signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/Akt pathway, which plays a role in neuron survival and function. By triggering these pathways, EGCG may support the brain's natural regenerative processes.
Additionally, catechins appear to protect against the aggregation of beta-amyloid proteins, which are associated with age-related cognitive decline. Through these combined mechanisms, green tea catechins may help support cognitive function, mood stability, and overall brain health.
Heart and Metabolic Health
Green tea catechins, particularly EGCG, may be supportive to cardiovascular and metabolic health through their influence on cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and insulin sensitivity. EGCG has been observed to protect against the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. Oxidized LDL is a risk factor for cardiovascular conditions as it contributes to arterial plaque formation. By protecting LDL from oxidative damage, catechins help to maintain arterial health and support balanced cholesterol levels. (5)
Catechins support metabolic health by influencing glucose metabolism. Research has shown that catechins can help to maintain normal insulin sensitivity, which may help regulate blood sugar levels. Mechanistically, catechins are thought to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key enzyme in cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK activation promotes glucose uptake in cells and enhances fatty acid oxidation, which together support stable blood sugar levels and metabolic function. Some studies suggest that these effects may also contribute to body composition management. (6, 7)
How EGCG Works at the Molecular Level
EGCG exerts its broad-spectrum protective effects by targeting several core cellular pathways. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master regulator of energy balance that stimulates glucose uptake, enhances fat oxidation, and promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, supporting cellular energy production and metabolic health.
EGCG also suppresses the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key driver of inflammation, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and preserving cellular function. In addition, EGCG activates Nrf2, a transcription factor that upregulates the body’s own antioxidant defenses, further enhancing resilience against oxidative stress. Together, these mechanisms position EGCG as a potent ally in maintaining cellular health and function, especially under age-related stress. (8, 9)
EGCG + NAD⁺ Precursors: A Synergistic Stack
EGCG is an ideal partner for NAD+ precursors such as NMN or NR. By reducing inflammation and oxidative damage - two major drains on cellular NAD+ - EGCG helps preserve NAD+ reserves and supports optimal mitochondrial and nuclear DNA integrity.
Research suggests that EGCG can complement NAD+ boosters by protecting DNA from stress-induced degradation and may also indirectly support sirtuin activity by curbing NAD+ consumption through the inhibition of PARPs and CD38. This synergy reinforces cellular defenses, boosts energy output, and enhances long-term resilience, making EGCG and NAD+ precursors a powerful combination for cellular longevity.
When and How to Take EGCG
To maximize the benefits of EGCG, timing and pairing with other supplements matter. While some studies suggest that taking EGCG in the evening may be more effective for postprandial glucose control, morning use is also common for metabolic support and to align with circadian rhythms. EGCG pairs well with NAD+ precursors (like NMN or NR) and mitochondrial cofactors such as TMG, CoQ10, and magnesium, potentially amplifying their combined benefits. (10)
Although it is a common belief that calcium or milk may impair catechin absorption, clinical evidence indicates that while milk proteins can bind catechins, the overall impact on catechin bioavailability in humans is minimal. For those seeking to optimize absorption, it may still be prudent to take EGCG separately from high-calcium foods, but this is not strictly necessary for most individuals. (11)
What’s Next for EGCG?
Emerging research continues to expand the potential applications of EGCG. Recent studies suggest EGCG may influence epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation, thereby modulating gene expression patterns relevant to aging and stress adaptation. EGCG also appears to trigger beneficial changes in the gut microbiome, which could mediate systemic anti-inflammatory effects. (13)
Additionally, EGCG is being investigated for its role in protecting against the abnormal growth associated with DNA damage, with evidence indicating it may regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis under conditions of oxidative or oncogenic stress. These findings underscore EGCG’s promise as a multifaceted tool for long-term health optimization, extending far beyond its well-established antioxidant properties. (12)
