Research on Tea and Immune System.

TEA CAN DO THAT(tm)
A healthy immune system protects the body from infection and disease.
A number of test tube studies have shown that some flavonoids help
immune response by acting as anti-allergic (135, 136, 137), anti-
inflammatory (138, 139), anti-viral (140) and anti-bacterial agents
(80, 141, 142, 143). Furthermore, flavonoids have been shown to
modulate the function of blood cells that are relevant for the immune
response (81) and in both human and animal studies flavonoids have
been shown to fight bacteria (80, 141, 142, 143) and thus improve
resistance to infection. In addition, cell studies have shown that
flavonoids in black and green tea have anti-inflammatory properties
(138, 139).

Studies specifically on tea flavonoids in test tube and animal
research found that tea flavonoids may help maintain proper immune
response by helping control inflammation (138, 139, 144) and by
reducing the production of proteins involved in inflammation (145).
These properties suggest that tea flavonoids help improve resistance
to infection. Research conducted in test tubes and small pigs
suggests
that tea flavonoids may also help sustain a healthy gastrointestinal
tract by promoting the proper balance of bacteria in the colon (146,
147). Emerging research has also found that tea antioxidants can
inhibit the growth of unhealthy bacteria and promote the growth of
good bacteria in the gut. In addition, recent test tube-based studies
have found that tea flavonoids can kill bacteria known to cause
stomach ulcers (148, 80, 149).

Theanine, a unique amino acid found in tea, activates specific cells
involved in the "first line of defense" cells of the immune system,
which may reduce the risk of viral and bacterial infections (127).
This suggests that regular tea consumption may help support the
body's
immune system. Researchers from the Brigham and Women's Hospital and
Harvard University recently published new data indicating that
theanine can help the body ward off infection and disease and may
strengthen the immune system (150). In a follow up human clinical
trial, published in the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences,
these researchers showed that after drinking 20 ounces of black tea
daily for two to four weeks, participant's immune cells produced two
-
four times more interferon. Interferon is a protein that helps
strengthen or improve the body's immune response. Coffee had no
effect
on increasing the production of interferon (127). While research on
effects of tea on the body's immune system and its potential to help
protect the body is just emerging, experts are encouraged by these
promising results.

*While tea is a naturally rich source of antioxidants, it is not a
substitute for fruits or vegetables which provide a wide range of
antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Please consult your
doctor regarding a diet/nutritional plan that is right for you.

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