Posted on 04/21/2025 3:26:15 PM PDT by ConservativeMind
Recently, researchers have discovered an increasing correlation between some liver cancers and non-viral chronic liver disease (CLD).
One liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is associated with CLD in about 15%–25% of cases.
In order to investigate how healthy liver tissue differs from that of HCC patients with CLD, scientists analyzed which metabolites were present in CLD and normal tissue to identify metabolic pathways that may be dysregulated. By investigating differences in gene expression and metabolites, the investigators were able to identify possible disease-causing pathways and potential therapeutic targets for HCC prevention.
"The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of HCC from CLD have been shown to involve activation of inflammation-related signals and age-related metabolic abnormalities.
"In addition, it has been suggested that supplementation with antioxidants, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may be effective in ameliorating these abnormalities," said Atsushi Ono.
The research team categorized CLD cases into two subtypes: Subtype 1, characterized by higher expression of inflammatory markers, and Subtype 2, which is associated with more elderly patients. The elevated inflammatory signaling exhibited by Subtype 1 has already been reported as a potential mechanism for cancer development in previous studies. Both CLD subtypes showed lower gene expression associated with fatty acid metabolism, and Subtype 2 showed higher fatty acid accumulation and metabolite deficiencies compared to normal liver tissue.
Importantly, dysregulation in cellular pathways linked to CLD may offer therapeutic targets for HCC prevention. The research team examined how the gene expression observed in CLD subtypes could be altered by specific treatments.
A previously published study using a high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver mouse model showed that green tea or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) prevented the increased expression of inflammatory pathways. EGCG may therefore help reverse some of the pathway dysregulation seen in CLD that may contribute to HCC development.
(Excerpt) Read more at medicalxpress.com ...
You can get a bit over 100 mg of EGCG with two bags of brewed green tea.
You shouldn’t overdo this one though. Epigallocatechin gallate, like other esters of gallic acid, can damage the liver if taken to excess. Humans evolved to take in moderate amounts given we are omnivorous.
Younes, Maged; Aggett, Peter; Aguilar, Fernando; et al. (18 April 2018). “Scientific opinion on the safety of green tea catechins”. EFSA Journal. 16 (4): e05239.
I think someone here posted an article a few months ago that said to avoid extracts, like those found in capsules, because it is more than humans can handle. We aren’t squirrels or deer, their saliva enzymes can break it down.
Short of EGCG capsules, the best source is matcha, but good quality, not the stuff being hawked in coffee shops.
And EGCG seems to work for a number of cancers. Back when I was there, it was a paradox that twice the percentage of Japanese smoked as Americans, but less than half the percentage of Japanese got lung cancer, and the presumptive reason was the daily drinking of either brewed or whisked green tea.
I take EGCG daily with a handful of other anti-oxidants.
The most amazing thing happened when I started: My brain felt like someone went through it with a mop and cleaned out all the dirty old musty spaces and cleared everything up. It’s stable that way now for 2 years. Wow.
Two separate doctors have confirmed that that experience is likely given a good anti-oxidant regimen.
In addition, virtually all good anti-oxidants are also anti-inflammatories, which helped eliminate my arthritis (stopping working didn’t hurt either!), and is known to help avoid heart disease, which starts as inflamed arteries that get covered up with cholesterol plaques.
So I heartily recommend it!
What are the scientifically proven health benefits of each of the following: EGCG, Grape Seed Extract, Quercetin, Vitamin C, Berberine, Spirulina, Turmeric, Turkey Tail Mushrooms, NAC, Ginko Biloba, and Aged Garlic Extract?
ChatGPT said:
Sure! Here’s a breakdown of the scientifically proven health benefits of each of the supplements you’ve mentioned:
1. EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate)
EGCG is a powerful antioxidant found in green tea. Its benefits include:
Antioxidant properties: Protects cells from oxidative stress.
Supports cardiovascular health: Reduces LDL cholesterol and lowers blood pressure.
Weight loss: Helps in fat oxidation and may assist with weight management.
Anti-inflammatory: Can reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
Cancer prevention: Some studies suggest EGCG may inhibit cancer cell growth, particularly in breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
2. Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract contains high levels of proanthocyanidins, which are powerful antioxidants.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory: Helps combat oxidative stress and reduces inflammation.
Cardiovascular health: Improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, and strengthens blood vessels.
Improves skin health: May reduce wrinkles and protect against UV-induced skin damage.
Supports brain function: May protect against age-related cognitive decline and improve memory.
3. Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant: Reduces inflammation and protects cells from oxidative damage.
Allergy relief: Acts as a natural antihistamine, helping reduce symptoms of hay fever and other allergic reactions.
Supports heart health: May lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function.
Cancer prevention: Some studies suggest it has anticancer properties by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.
4. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient and powerful antioxidant.
Boosts immunity: Enhances the function of immune cells and helps protect against infections.
Collagen production: Essential for healthy skin, joints, and connective tissues.
Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
Heart health: May reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease.
Improves iron absorption: Enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (from plant sources).
5. Berberine
Berberine is an alkaloid found in several plants, including Goldenseal.
Blood sugar regulation: Highly effective in lowering blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
Weight loss: May help with fat loss by improving insulin sensitivity.
Cholesterol management: Can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol.
Gut health: Exhibits antimicrobial properties and may help with digestive issues like IBS.
6. Spirulina
Spirulina is a nutrient-dense algae.
Rich in protein: Contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
Antioxidant properties: Contains phycocyanin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Supports immune function: Enhances immune response and may protect against infections.
Heart health: May lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Detoxification: Helps the body remove heavy metals like arsenic.
7. Turmeric (Curcumin)
Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric.
Anti-inflammatory: Powerful anti-inflammatory effects, potentially beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and supports the body’s antioxidant defenses.
Brain health: Increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting brain function and potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Heart health: Improves endothelial function, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Cancer prevention: Has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in various studies.
8. Turkey Tail Mushrooms (Trametes versicolor)
Turkey tail is a type of medicinal mushroom known for its immune-boosting properties.
Immune system support: Contains polysaccharide-K (PSK), which can enhance immune function and stimulate the production of immune cells.
Cancer support: PSK has been used in cancer treatment in Japan as an adjunct therapy to chemotherapy.
Gut health: Contains prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Antioxidant properties: Supports overall health by reducing oxidative stress.
9. NAC (N-Acetylcysteine)
NAC is a supplement form of the amino acid cysteine.
Antioxidant production: Boosts glutathione levels, one of the body’s most important antioxidants.
Liver health: Used to treat acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose and support liver detoxification.
Respiratory health: Acts as a mucolytic, helping to thin mucus and improve symptoms of chronic respiratory conditions like COPD.
Mental health: Emerging research suggests NAC may help with conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD due to its role in regulating glutamate and oxidative stress in the brain.
10. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is an ancient plant known for its cognitive and circulatory benefits.
Cognitive enhancement: May improve memory, attention, and processing speed, particularly in older adults or those with cognitive decline.
Antioxidant effects: Protects the brain and other tissues from oxidative damage.
Improves circulation: Enhances blood flow, which can help with conditions like peripheral artery disease.
Anxiety and mood: Some evidence suggests it may help reduce anxiety.
11. Aged Garlic Extract
Aged garlic extract is made from garlic that has been fermented.
Cardiovascular health: Reduces blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, and improves arterial health.
Antioxidant properties: Protects cells from oxidative damage, supporting overall health.
Immune system support: Enhances immune function and may reduce the frequency of infections.
Cancer prevention: Some studies suggest it may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Detoxification: Aged garlic has been shown to support liver function and detox pathways.
These supplements are commonly used for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. However, it’s important to remember that while these compounds have scientific backing, individual results can vary, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before adding them to your routine.
My opinion is obesity encourages cancer cell growth with all the extra nutrition floating in blood. Japanese people in Japan are less obese than Americans living in America. I avoid green tea because it acts as a diuretic in my body. Zero cancers, zero heart issues at age 85 by keeping my weight under 154 lbs with daily exercise and avoid eating more than body needs.
Huh. My love of good beer has given me some concern as to the state of my liver. I have no reason to believe I have a compromised one, but I have decided to cut back just in case. I like tea, black or green and think I’ll try some of this EGCG stuff. Maybe it will extend the life of my liver so I can enjoy more beer. But it will still be after my second love which is a big mug of my own ground bean coffee in the morning.
Liver needs exercise like all the other muscles. 😀
ginger-can-help-fight-prostate-cancer
If you are going to brew green tea get good quality tea from Japan. Wikipedia has a good article discussing the various types of Japanese Green Teas.
"Sencha (煎茶, lit. 'infused tea') is a type of Japanese green tea (緑茶, ryokucha) which is prepared by infusing the processed whole tea leaves in hot water. This is as opposed to matcha (抹茶), powdered Japanese green tea, where the green tea powder is mixed with hot water and therefore the leaf itself is included in the beverage. Sencha is the most popular tea in Japan."
I get plenty of exercise. I cut split and stack several cords of firewood every year, mow and weed whack our 2 1/2 lot, gardening, walking our dog, maintenance of the house, and I do most of the grocery shopping and cooking. I’m 74, in pretty good shape, no other vices, just good beer. Oh, then there is dark chocolate, my oh my.
Push or riding mower?
Both. Rider for the wide open areas, push mower for around some trees and bushes, and some weed whacking along the ditch between our property and the road. About 1 and a half acres of the 2 and a half acre lot is lawn. The remaining acre is wooded and adjoins many more acres of woods and wetlands.
Echo...thanks for the post.
Ok. I have a four wheel drive push mower - hilly lawn but too small for a rider.
I have neighbors where the most exercise they get is emptying the grass clippings from their rider.
Nope. Not me. I don’t use a bagger for the grass clippings. I just mow and do not rake or bag the clippings. They go back into the ground.
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