New research suggests that green tea may slow down the muscle wasting seen that occurs in muscular dystrophy. The study of mice with a Duchenne muscular dystrophy-like disease revealed that daily doses of green tea extract appeared to slow down deterioration of some muscle tissue. The researchers believe that the extract may work by combating oxidative stress in the muscle. Previous studies support this theory as markers of oxidative stress have been found in the muscle of Duchenne muscular dystrophy sufferers. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by a single genetic mutation. It almost exclusively effects boys, and sufferers rarely live beyond their 20’s. The researchers say their findings suggest that “dietary intervention in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients is feasible.” The dose given to the mice was equivalent to drinking seven cups of green tea.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2002; 75:749-753
