Scientists from the University of Maryland Medical Center have discovered for the first time that the main active ingredient in green tea can stop the development of lung cancer. As specialists explain, the substance called "epigallocatechin gallate" (EGCG) has anti-cancer properties. However, they are still trying to figure out exactly how EGCG suppresses tumor growth. Scientists believe EGCG increases the level of mi-R210 molecules that are found in cancer cells.

The study showed that tumor cells with a higher concentration of such molecules multiply more slowly than those with a low level of mi-R210. In addition, cells with a large amount of molecules lose the ability to grow disorganized, multilayered in the form of layers that overlap one another, which is a distinctive feature of tumor cells.

Experts noted that the rate of cancer development is lower in countries where people consume green tea in large quantities, for example in Japan. In 2010. Taiwanese scientists studied the habit of smoking and drinking tea for more than 500 people and found that the risk of developing lung cancer was 5 times higher among those who did not drink tea and 12 times higher among smokers.

According to scientists, a number of studies indicate that the use of green or black tea can increase the likelihood of lung cancer. In this regard, they decided to continue working to make a final conclusion about the benefits or harm of green tea.

Earlier, scientists wrote that EGCG can reduce the risk of developing type 1 diabetes, slows down excess weight, prolongs youth and strengthens immunity.

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