Green tea and its extracts have long been studied for their health benefits, including cancer prevention. Scientists have new information about how it helps prevent or slow the growth of prostate cancer. Men with cancer who consumed green tea were found to have a lower risk of inflammation of the prostate tissue and other changes associated with tumor growth compared to those who did not take it, explains Dr Susanne Henning from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. According to the results of the study, the positive effect is due to the polyphenols contained in green tea. Antioxidants protect cells from damage, researchers explain. The experiment involved 79 men with prostate cancer who were about to undergo surgery. Participants consumed green tea or water every day for 3 to 8 weeks. Blood and urine tests were also performed on the volunteers. After the surgical intervention, the scientists also perform a study of the men’s prostate tissue. NEWS_MORE_BOX The results show that prostate-specific antigen PSA levels are lowered in men who consume green tea. It is known that high levels of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, can affect prostate cancer. A marker of inflammation called nuclear factor kappaB also showed a reduction in drinkers. Inflammation is linked to tumor growth, the scientists say. The team is continuing their research to see if adding quercetin to green tea helps fight cancer. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in apple peel, blueberries, onions. Another Italian study also showed that green tea consumption helped slow down prostate cancer. The data were presented at a meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.