Testicular Cancer and Green Tea by LIVESTRONG.COM
Overview
Testicular cancer is cancer that begins in a testicle, which is
the primary male sex gland and produces the male sex hormones and
sperm. In the United States, testicular cancer is fairly rare,
accounting for only 1 percent of all cancers in men. Germ cell
tumors are the most common forms of cancer found in the testicle.
They are generally curable, if caught early and treated promptly.
Green tea has been thought to protect against testicular
cancer.
Plant Description
Green tea is a common beverage consumed in Asia to promote
health and satisfy thirst. It is made by steeping the prepared
leaves of the green tea plant called Camellia sinensis in hot
water. Camellia sinensis is a big shrub with evergreen leaves,
belonging to the family Theaceae. Today, green tea extract is a
popular herbal remedy used primarily for preventing and treating
various chronic human illnesses, such as cancer.
Green Tea Composition
The effect of green tea on several forms of cancer is mainly due
to the presence of polyphenol components in green tea, especially
the catechin called epigallocatechin, a biologically active
molecule with antioxidant properties. Green tea also contains
volatile oils, alkaloids, caffeine, vitamins and minerals in
varying amounts.
Green Tea and Testicular Cancer
Green tea's antioxidant activity may prevent cancer of the
testicle. The mechanism of this action is not fully understood, but
scientists consider that antioxidants inhibit the formation of
highly energized oxygen metabolites or free radicals, thereby
preventing cellular damage -- which is the most common pathway for
cancer. Free radicals can build up within cells and tamper with
DNA, causing harmful mutations which can cause cells to grow out of
order or control.
Precautions
Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recognized
green tea as safe, women must avoid consuming green tea during
pregnancy and lactation, since it may interfere with iron
metabolism in infants, causing anemia. People suffering from
gastric ulcers also must not consume large amounts of green tea
because it stimulates the production of gastric acid, causing
severe heartburn.
References
Read more:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/364996-testicular-cancer-green-tea/#ixzz1C3X4WEFN
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