Possible Link between Green Tea and Arthritis Prevention

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease and is one of the most common forms of arthritis. According to an April 13, 1999 news release from the Arthritis Foundation, the disease affects 2.1 million Americans (i.e., 1.5; million women, 600,000 men), and usually strikes in middle age. Researchers conducting a study funded by the Arthritis Foundation report that green tea may be useful in treating or preventing rheumatoid arthritis; however, more research is needed to determine its exact role. According to the release, the polyphenolic compounds present in green tea may limit the onset and subsequent progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Polyphenols are a class of compounds that have strong antioxidant properties (i.e., the ability to halt enzymes that produce carcinogens) .
In three independent experiments, the mice that researchers gave green tea polyphenols (GTP) in water exhibited significantly reduced incidence of arthritis (i.e., 33% to 50% developed arthritis as compared to 84% to 100% of mice not given GTP in water). According to the release, mice given GTP in water were protected significantly from developing arthritis, and if they did develop the disease, its severity was mild. More testing is needed with humans to determine the role of green tea in the treatment and prevention of rheumatoid arthritis.