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The medicinal powers of green tea are attributed to antioxidant compounds called catechins, a type of polyphenol that has been shown to destroy certain bacteria and viruses, boost the immune system, and fight several forms of cancer, including prostate cancer.
Although there are several different kinds of catechins, experts have identified epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG, as the most potent. Research has shown that green tea polyphenols, primarily EGCG, can significantly lower the levels of PSA and two biomarkers for prostate cancer, hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor. Green tea catechins also may help men who have pre-cancerous prostate lesions, also known as prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), a condition that signals a high risk of developing “full-on” prostate cancer.
Studies show that men with PIN who took catechins daily had a significantly lower risk of developing prostate cancer and also a reduced risk of lower urinary tract symptoms, which makes catechins helpful in treating symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Study after study has demonstrated that men who drink at least three cups of green tea each day have a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Experts have found that green tea compounds interfere with the activity of an enzyme that has a role in initiating prostate cancer, and that the compounds also prompt prostate cancer cells to “commit suicide.”
Catechins also work to repair damaged DNA that might otherwise trigger cancer growth, as well as hinder the actions of an enzyme called COX-2, which is involved in the process of prostate cancer. More on green tea and prostate health
http://www.prostate.net/2011/bph/best-foods-for-prostate-health-green-tea-mens-health/
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