Catechins are a group of polyphenols naturally found in tea leaves. They are powerful antioxidants that help to prevent oxidative damage, which is linked to many chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. In this blog we discuss the structure of catechins, how they work, and some health benefits associated with them.
What are catechins used for?
Catechins are used for a variety of purposes. For example, catechins help to prevent oxidative damage and stimulate metabolism in the human body. They also have antibacterial properties that can be very helpful during cold or flu season. The most common use is by drinking tea made from the dried leaves of Camellia sinensis plants which often contain high concentrations of catechins. When consumed, they bind with proteins on cell membranes, inhibiting their oxidation and protecting them from free-radical attacks.
Where are most catechins found?
Catechins are antioxidants that are found in many different plants. Most catechins are found in tea leaves, where they can make up as much as 25% of the dry weight of a leaf.
How do catechins work?
The antioxidant properties found in catechins help protect cells from free-radical damage by giving them a defensive barrier and keeping the surfaces of your cells clear for normal cellular function.
Additionally, these same catechins have been shown to stimulate metabolism in mammals including humans. This is because when they are consumed through foods like green tea, they increase energy expenditure and fat burning rates which makes it easier for you to lose weight.
What is oxidative damage and how is it caused?
Oxidative damage is any type of cell or tissue damage caused by the free radicals that are found in every individual's body. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which damages cells and tissues at a cellular level and causes them to age prematurely.
Catechins help protect against this process because they act as an antioxidant that helps fight off damaging free-radicals before they have time to do any real harm.
What Xendurance products contain catechins and why?
The Xendurance products Immune Boost and Lactic Acid Buffer contain large doses of catechins for the very purpose of providing antioxidant rich properties to help fight off oxidative stress and to boost the immune system.
Clinical data shows a 39% reduction of Oxidative Stress in just 10 days while using our Lactic Acid Buffer tablets. For over a decade, these studies have also provided convincing data on the anti-aging effects.
The Immune Boost formula contains a very high dose of Green Tea Leaf Extract as well, which is catechin rich for additional antioxidant protection against free radicals.
Together, both Lactic Acid Buffer and Immune Boost provide a powerful combination in cell protection, immune system responses and anti-aging properties.
