FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q1: What are catechins?
A1: Catechins are polyphenol compounds that are predominantly found in tea. Catechin is a powerful and water-soluble antioxidant, which provides the astringent taste to tea. Oolong and black tea also have catechins, but it is found that green tea (unfermented tea) has higher amount of catechins, which is about 15-40% of the dry weight of green tea leaves. Oolong tea (partially fermented) has about 8-20% while black tea (fermented) has approximately 3-10% of catechins. Scientific research revealed that catechins (especially epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG) are the active compounds found naturally in green tea that has tremendous protective effects to human. These polyphenol catechins in green tea have been found to provide 25 – 100 times greater antioxidant protection than vitamins C and E.
Q2: How many types of catechins are there?
A2: There are five main types of catechins:• Gallocatechin (GC)• Epicatechin (EC)• Epigallocatechin (EGC)• Epicatechin Gallate (ECG)• Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)
Q3: What is the relative concentration of the five major tea catechins in green tea?
A3: The relative concentration of the five major tea catechins is EGCG > ECG > EC > EGC > GC
Q4: Among these 5 types of polyphenol catechins, which one is the most potent antioxidant group to human health?
A4: Although they're closely related chemically, the catechins have slightly different properties and potencies. Research revealed that EGCG is the most abundant and potent group to offer protective effects to human health.
Q5: Please explain how catechins are absorbed and metabolized in the system?
A5: After oral intake, most tea catechins undergo degradation in the intestine and then about 20-30% of those are degraded or a few of the intact catechins are absorbed into the body. The rest, which is the majority, seem to be excreted via faeces. After absorption, tea catechins are further metabolized in the liver and circulated throughout the whole body and finally being excreted via urine in approximately 24 hours. To boost the rate of absorption by as much as 13 fold (research done by Purdue University), Ujicha has been added with citrus acid / vitamin C.
Q6: How green tea extract is processed?
A6: To make green tea extract, the catechins (most often EGCG) are isolated and drawn out by using water or steam, then condensed before spray drying. Green tea extract contains greater amount of catechins than other forms of green tea.
Q7: What makes green tea superior than other regular tea?
A7: All teas - black, green and oolong are derived from the Camellia sinensis evergreen plant and contain polyphenols. The type of tea and the polyphenol content are determined by how the leaves are processed, how much fermentation or oxidation they go through. Green tea is the most natural and “true” tea since it is made from unfermented/unoxidized leaves. While both oolong and black tea has undergone semi-fermentation and full fermentation process respectively. Therefore, green tea contains higher concentration of powerful antioxidants polyphenol catechins (EGCG) than oolong tea and black tea. As far as the content of catechins shows, green tea is the most recommended for the health effects due to its higher amount of polyphenol catechins.
Q8: What are the differences between black tea and green tea?
A8: Green tea is dried for a shorter period and heated sooner than the black tea in order to prevent enzymatic oxidation and to retain its flavour and medicinal properties. Green tea has a smaller amount of caffeine as compared to black tea. Black tea owes its high caffeine content to the oxidation process it undergoes. High caffeine content may be responsible for irritability, insomnia, anxiety etc. Black tea in some cases has been seen to stain teeth, which does not occur with green tea. The most important difference is that green tea is richer in polyphenols, which has many positive health benefits. The brewing method applied to black tea brings down its polyphenol content.
Q9: What is the amount of calories in green tea?
A9: Green tea is devoid of calories. It is often drunk to lose weight. Green tea helps in shaping up because of its thermogenic component. Thermogenesis is a factor that helps to boost body temperature and hence burns excess calories. Theobromine and theophylline are also present in green tea. They help to boost up body metabolism and thereby reduce weight.
Q10: Does the green tea in tea bag form have health benefits?
A10: Tea bag uses a much lower grade of tea leaf and is often ground into an unrecognizable dust. Since tea bags usually have smaller leaves or pieces of leaves and result in more caffeine when brewed. Hence, the quality of green tea in tea bag form is lower.
Q11: Is unflavoured green tea healthier than flavoured green tea?
A11: No. Flavourings simply add taste and/or sweetness to tea. They don't affect the underlying health benefits of the green tea itself. However, combining citrus juice or vitamin C could increase the absorption of antioxidants from tea up to 13-fold according to a new research published in the Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.
Q12: What is the truth about caffeine in tea versus coffee and carbonated drinks?
A12: On a per pound basis, tea has more caffeine than does coffee. However, a pound of tea will yield about 200-250 cups while a pound of coffee will make between 30-40 cups, depending on how strong you like your tea or coffee. An average cup of green tea has about 15mg caffeine while a cup of coffee has about 100-135mg. Carbonated drinks has about 40-55mg caffeine while energy drinks like Red Bull has about 80mg.
Q13: Why is water temperature important?
A13: Water temperature is a critical factor in bringing out the best qualities of green tea. If the water temperature is too hot (Boiling temperature), the tea will be too bitter and much of its delicate aroma will be lost; if the water temperature is too cool, the full flavour contained in the leaves will not be extracted. Therefore, it is recommended to add ice only after the tea is dissolved properly in the warm water.
Q14: What are the general health benefits of green tea?
A14: Research suggests that the polyphenol catechins (especially EGCG) in green tea Prevents the growth of cancer cells [Reduce the risk of esophageal cancer by more than 60%. (National Cancer Institute in 1994)] Reduces LDL (low density lipoprotein) or bad cholesterol Reduce abnormal blood clot formation Prevent rheumatoid arthritis (Anti-inflammation) Prevent cardiovascular diseases Strengthens the immune system to fight pathogens
Q15: What role do tea polyphenol catechins play in preventing cancer?
A15: With the very potent anti-oxidative and binding action of EGCG to proteins (which explains the pungent taste), EGCG will fight against oxidative stress and will modulate carcinogenic compounds, which is from where certain cancerous conditions develop.
Q16: I have heard that the consumption of green tea can help prevent tooth decay. What in green tea helps with the prevention?
A16: Tea catechins were confirmed to prevent dental plaque formation by cariogenic bacterium. Catechin suppresses the formation of plaque by cariogenic bacteria and also kills the bacteria. It also kills other bacterium that causes bad breath. Green tea contains natural fluorine, which helps prevent cavities. It is better to drink tea while you are eating, particularly after the meal.
Q17: Does green tea help in weight loss?
A17: The green tea extract may play a role in the control of body composition via activation of thermogenesis or fat oxidation or both. First of all, green tea works by increasing energy expenditure. Green tea has thermogenic properties and promotes fat burning beyond that explained by its caffeine content per se.
Q18: What are the effects of green tea on pregnancy?
A18: Experts advise that green tea and pregnancy is an acceptable combination as long as the pregnant women limit their intake of green tea to no more than 4 cups daily. The positive news is the powerful antioxidants (EGCG) in green tea can help to increase immunity and to promote bone growth. A study reported that the major compound in green tea called EGCG that causes the inactivation of an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) in cancerous cell is important for folic acid utilization. Folic acid is essential in the prevention of neural tube defects in the first month after conception. However, EGCG-DHFR study is rather weak, so there hasn’t been enough conclusive evidence to prove that green tea indeed has adverse effects on folic acid.
Q19: What is the effect of green tea on hypertension?
A19: A study published in the January 2004 issue of the Journal of Nutrition found that persons consuming 1 liter (more than 4 cups) of green tea per day had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The powerful antioxidants (EGCG) present in green tea clear the arteries and help blood flows through them. Hence the chances of hypertension are reduced considerably.
Q20: How does green tea help in people with kidney stones?
A20: A study published in the Journal of Urology in 2005 found that green tea inhibited the formation of the most common kind of kidney stones (those made of calcium oxalate) in laboratory animals. The researchers believe that it interferes with the calcification process through its antioxidant effects.
Q21: Does green tea undergo any chemical changes in term of acidity level when it is left to stand for overnight?
A21: Yes. When tea is left to stand at room temperature, the health-promoting catechins begin to decrease. Green tea is alkaline in nature, while black tea is on the low end of acidic. Green tea would become more acidic overnight, since the catechins become oxidized and transformed into theaflavins and thearubigens that are characteristic of black tea, which means it will become less alkaline and more acidic when left to stand for overnight.
Q22: What is the possible interaction between green tea and other substances?
A22: The tannins in tea can interfere with the absorption of non-heme iron (iron supplements) if taken at the same time. Milk added to green tea can reduce the binding capacity of tannins. (Milk is rarely added to green tea.)
Q23: Why some people keep awake at night after drinking green tea while some do not have this problem?
A23: Some people who are caffeine-sensitive may find that drinking green tea (especially in large amounts) keeps them awake at night; most people don't have this problem. That may be because green tea also contains theanine, a natural tranquilizer that counteracts the stimulating effects of caffeine.
Q24: Does green tea has calming or anti-stress properties?
A24: The calming effect after drinking green tea most likely comes from its theanine content. Theanine is an amino acid found primarily in green tea that has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress and promote feelings of relaxation due to the increase in alpha-brain wave activity (which is a "relaxed yet alert" state seek in yoga class).
Q25: What is the future outlook for green tea and its overall contribution to good health?
A25: Green tea has a very bright future. Green tea catechins could fight against diseases related to lifestyle and age and could fight against emerging life-threatening infectious diseases. By ingesting green tea, your good health can be assured.
Q26: Are the health benefits supported by scientific studies?
A26: Yes, the health benefits of green tea have been published in prestigious medical journals including the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Archives of Internal Medicine, the British Medical Journal and the Lancet. There are numerous studies and scientific researches performed by top-notch scientists at leading universities and research centers that show that green tea promotes good health in many ways. Prof. Dr Debasis Bagchi, Ph.D., F.A.C.N, CNS, MAICHE, Scientific Advisor to NatStar (M) Sdn Bhd has also written an in depth researched book about this acclaimed medicine for the 21st century entitled “Green Tea: Antioxidant Power To Fight Disease”. This book is available at NatStar (M) Sdn Bhd.
Q27: Why Ujicha is better than other green tea?
A27: Ujicha is better than other green tea because: Ujicha is green tea extract (Contain higher amount of polyphenol catechins) Ujicha is made of top Japanese green tea, Matcha Ujicha has 100% daily value of Vitamin C Low in calories Low in sugar No preservative No colouring
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Price
Price Per Packet RM54
Per Packet Contains 30 sachets x 2gm
Mixed with 200ml iced cold water for that refreshing taste.
Comes in delicious original flavour or refreshing lemon flavour.
Buy 10 Packet and Get 1 Packet FREE!
Per Packet Contains 30 sachets x 2gm
Mixed with 200ml iced cold water for that refreshing taste.
Comes in delicious original flavour or refreshing lemon flavour.
Buy 10 Packet and Get 1 Packet FREE!
Ujicha
1) What is Ujicha?
Ujicha is green tea extract powder enriched with extra polyphenol catechins (EGCG) and has 100% daily value of Vitamin C in it. Its polyphenol catechins (EGCG) content is 6 – 35 times more than other ordinary tea (Oolong tea & Black tea). Ujicha is available in 2 flavours i.e. original and lemon flavour.
2) Green tea facts
Green tea is the most widely consumed drink in the world after water. It is also one of the most popular herbal infusions in existence. Approximately 2.5 million tons of green tea are grown and produced worldwide on an annual basis. Written records date the use of the plant as a beverage since the tenth century B.C. in China and it is thought to be close to 5,000 years old. Green tea originates from China and has become associated with many cultures in Asia from Japan to the Middle East. Recently, it has become more widespread in the West. Uji from the region of Kyoto, is one of the top green tea producing area in Japan. Compared to green tea produced from China and other countries, Japanese green tea is distinguished by its pre-process method. Fresh tea leaves are briefly steamed right after they’re picked to deactivate the enzymes that would otherwise encourage oxidization. This unique process accounts for the fact that Japanese green tea preserves almost every good-for-your-health property in the fresh leaves.
3) What makes green tea superior than other ordinary tea?
Green, black and oolong teas are all derived from the Camellia sinensis evergreen plant. The difference comes from how the plant is processed. Common processing terms are withering, rolling, enzymatic oxidation/fermentation and drying/firing. Green tea is the most natural and “true” tea since it is made from unfermented/unoxidized leaves. Thus, green tea contains higher concentration of powerful antioxidants polyphenol catechins (EGCG) than oolong tea and black tea. Both oolong and black tea have undergone semi-fermentation and full fermentation process respectively. They are therefore, lower in nutrient content; while nutrients (polyphenol catechins, EGCG) found naturally in green tea are maintained and preserved.
4) What are polyphenol catechins?
Catechins are active and natural occurring compounds that belong to a family of antioxidants and appear predominantly in green tea (Camellia sinensis). Catechins have powerful antioxidant activity, vitamin like activity and disease-fighting properties. There are 5 types of catechins available in green tea: gallocatechin (GC), epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG compound is the most potent catechin, which deliver the greatest health benefits to our bodies.
5) Healthier with Ujicha!
Ujicha is far more nutritious and healthier than other beverages like carbonated/soft drink, sweetened juices and energized drinks. Ujicha is definitely the smarter choice!
a) Ujicha Contents
Flavonoids – Polyphenol catechins (Especially EGCG – 72mg added for the extra benefits)
100% daily value of Vitamin C
Vitamins A, E, K and B Complex
Amino Acids
Minerals
Low in calories
Low in sugar
No preservative
No colouring
(i) Why Vitamin C is added into Ujicha?Other than the standard benefits of taking vitamin C, the addition of Vitamin C in Ujicha is to increase the absorption of antioxidants from the tea up to 13-fold, as suggested in new research published in the Molecular Nutrition and Food Research – 14/11/2007.
ii) Why Ujicha is the smarter choice?Our green tea contains more polyphenol catechins (EGCG) than that found in other brands especially when compared with those brewed from tea bags. Besides, we are using top Japanese green tea, Matcha, from the famous green tea plantation of Uji in our formulation.Matcha green tea is approximately 10 to 15 times stronger than regular “steeped” green tea due to the fact that it consists of the entire tea leaf and ground to fine powder.
b) Health Benefits of Catechins (EGCG) In Ujicha
Protect the cardiovascular system (Heart diseases & stroke)
Catechin with its powerful antioxidant effect fights free radicals that encourage arterial buildup. Numerous studies have shown that green tea consumption can both lower the LDL (bad) cholesterol and help promote the increased production of HDL (good) cholesterol. Lowering LDL cholesterol is beneficial, because it reduces the risk of both heart attack and stroke. Increased HDL aids in the removal of plaque build up in the arteries. Consuming our delicious green tea daily is the healthier way to reap the maximum benefits for your cardiovascular health.
Control blood sugar level (Diabetes)
Research has shown catechins compound in green tea improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of individuals with diabetes. The EGCG works on the genetic level, causing a reduction in the number of messenger RNAs that direct liver cells to produce the enzymes involved in the creation of glucose (sugar). Thus, visceral fat deposits are significantly decreased.
Improve blood pressure (Hypertension)
Catechins present in green tea suppresses production of angiotensin II which leads to high blood pressure. Catechins also clear the arteries and help smoother blood flow through them. Hence the chances of hypertension are greatly reduced.
Prevent and inhibit cancer growth
EGCG inhibit cancer by blocking the formation of cancer-causing compounds and suppressing the activation of carcinogens. It also inhibits cancer cells from growing. It binds to a specific enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase in the body. EGCG helps in killing cancerous cells and stops its progression without attacking normal cells.
Improve digestive system
Green tea extract has demonstrated to enhance the growth of several strains of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species, which helps in preventing the proliferation of unfriendly bacteria from overgrowing in the human intestinal microflora, a condition that can lead to the development of a host of degenerative diseases including cancer.
Boost immune system
A compound found in green tea called Theanine (Amino acid) can boost the ability of 'gamma delta T cells' to fight infections. A 'gamma delta T cell' is a type of white blood cell, which is the bodies main first line of defence. By strengthening the white blood cells, Theanine is basically better equipping the infantry of the body to fight against hostile forces.
Anti-inflammation
The EGCG compound has the capability to block the activity of these two potent molecules, IL-6 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which can trigger inflammation via the active production of proteins and enzymes that infiltrate the joints of persons with rheumatoid arthritis. It works in much the same way as anti-inflammatory drugs. Hence, help to prevent cartilage degradation and bone density erosion.
7) The synergistic effects of other essential constituents found naturally in green tea on human health
a) Caffeine in green teaCaffeine can actually be beneficial when taken in tea as it works slightly differently from the caffeine in coffee. The good news is caffeine in tea can stimulate the circulation and metabolism via the central nervous system. As more oxygen is pumped to the brain, mental powers are heightened, reactions speed up and muscle function improves.
b) Tannin in green teaTannin is a natural component of tea. When released, tannin makes tea taste bitter or astringent. Tannin is released from steeped tea leaves after 2-4 minutes. The tannin in green tea works alongside with the caffeine that has a relaxing and stabilizing effect. This means the caffeine is absorbed more slowly and prevent that "caffeine shock" which used to happen during coffee or soda drink consumption.
c) Amino acids in green teaGreen tea contains L-theanine which directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, which promotes a state of relaxed awareness and has a calming effect on the body.
Ujicha is green tea extract powder enriched with extra polyphenol catechins (EGCG) and has 100% daily value of Vitamin C in it. Its polyphenol catechins (EGCG) content is 6 – 35 times more than other ordinary tea (Oolong tea & Black tea). Ujicha is available in 2 flavours i.e. original and lemon flavour.
2) Green tea facts
Green tea is the most widely consumed drink in the world after water. It is also one of the most popular herbal infusions in existence. Approximately 2.5 million tons of green tea are grown and produced worldwide on an annual basis. Written records date the use of the plant as a beverage since the tenth century B.C. in China and it is thought to be close to 5,000 years old. Green tea originates from China and has become associated with many cultures in Asia from Japan to the Middle East. Recently, it has become more widespread in the West. Uji from the region of Kyoto, is one of the top green tea producing area in Japan. Compared to green tea produced from China and other countries, Japanese green tea is distinguished by its pre-process method. Fresh tea leaves are briefly steamed right after they’re picked to deactivate the enzymes that would otherwise encourage oxidization. This unique process accounts for the fact that Japanese green tea preserves almost every good-for-your-health property in the fresh leaves.
3) What makes green tea superior than other ordinary tea?
Green, black and oolong teas are all derived from the Camellia sinensis evergreen plant. The difference comes from how the plant is processed. Common processing terms are withering, rolling, enzymatic oxidation/fermentation and drying/firing. Green tea is the most natural and “true” tea since it is made from unfermented/unoxidized leaves. Thus, green tea contains higher concentration of powerful antioxidants polyphenol catechins (EGCG) than oolong tea and black tea. Both oolong and black tea have undergone semi-fermentation and full fermentation process respectively. They are therefore, lower in nutrient content; while nutrients (polyphenol catechins, EGCG) found naturally in green tea are maintained and preserved.
4) What are polyphenol catechins?
Catechins are active and natural occurring compounds that belong to a family of antioxidants and appear predominantly in green tea (Camellia sinensis). Catechins have powerful antioxidant activity, vitamin like activity and disease-fighting properties. There are 5 types of catechins available in green tea: gallocatechin (GC), epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG compound is the most potent catechin, which deliver the greatest health benefits to our bodies.
5) Healthier with Ujicha!
Ujicha is far more nutritious and healthier than other beverages like carbonated/soft drink, sweetened juices and energized drinks. Ujicha is definitely the smarter choice!
a) Ujicha Contents
Flavonoids – Polyphenol catechins (Especially EGCG – 72mg added for the extra benefits)
100% daily value of Vitamin C
Vitamins A, E, K and B Complex
Amino Acids
Minerals
Low in calories
Low in sugar
No preservative
No colouring
(i) Why Vitamin C is added into Ujicha?Other than the standard benefits of taking vitamin C, the addition of Vitamin C in Ujicha is to increase the absorption of antioxidants from the tea up to 13-fold, as suggested in new research published in the Molecular Nutrition and Food Research – 14/11/2007.
ii) Why Ujicha is the smarter choice?Our green tea contains more polyphenol catechins (EGCG) than that found in other brands especially when compared with those brewed from tea bags. Besides, we are using top Japanese green tea, Matcha, from the famous green tea plantation of Uji in our formulation.Matcha green tea is approximately 10 to 15 times stronger than regular “steeped” green tea due to the fact that it consists of the entire tea leaf and ground to fine powder.
b) Health Benefits of Catechins (EGCG) In Ujicha
Protect the cardiovascular system (Heart diseases & stroke)
Catechin with its powerful antioxidant effect fights free radicals that encourage arterial buildup. Numerous studies have shown that green tea consumption can both lower the LDL (bad) cholesterol and help promote the increased production of HDL (good) cholesterol. Lowering LDL cholesterol is beneficial, because it reduces the risk of both heart attack and stroke. Increased HDL aids in the removal of plaque build up in the arteries. Consuming our delicious green tea daily is the healthier way to reap the maximum benefits for your cardiovascular health.
Control blood sugar level (Diabetes)
Research has shown catechins compound in green tea improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of individuals with diabetes. The EGCG works on the genetic level, causing a reduction in the number of messenger RNAs that direct liver cells to produce the enzymes involved in the creation of glucose (sugar). Thus, visceral fat deposits are significantly decreased.
Improve blood pressure (Hypertension)
Catechins present in green tea suppresses production of angiotensin II which leads to high blood pressure. Catechins also clear the arteries and help smoother blood flow through them. Hence the chances of hypertension are greatly reduced.
Prevent and inhibit cancer growth
EGCG inhibit cancer by blocking the formation of cancer-causing compounds and suppressing the activation of carcinogens. It also inhibits cancer cells from growing. It binds to a specific enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase in the body. EGCG helps in killing cancerous cells and stops its progression without attacking normal cells.
Improve digestive system
Green tea extract has demonstrated to enhance the growth of several strains of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species, which helps in preventing the proliferation of unfriendly bacteria from overgrowing in the human intestinal microflora, a condition that can lead to the development of a host of degenerative diseases including cancer.
Boost immune system
A compound found in green tea called Theanine (Amino acid) can boost the ability of 'gamma delta T cells' to fight infections. A 'gamma delta T cell' is a type of white blood cell, which is the bodies main first line of defence. By strengthening the white blood cells, Theanine is basically better equipping the infantry of the body to fight against hostile forces.
Anti-inflammation
The EGCG compound has the capability to block the activity of these two potent molecules, IL-6 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which can trigger inflammation via the active production of proteins and enzymes that infiltrate the joints of persons with rheumatoid arthritis. It works in much the same way as anti-inflammatory drugs. Hence, help to prevent cartilage degradation and bone density erosion.
7) The synergistic effects of other essential constituents found naturally in green tea on human health
a) Caffeine in green teaCaffeine can actually be beneficial when taken in tea as it works slightly differently from the caffeine in coffee. The good news is caffeine in tea can stimulate the circulation and metabolism via the central nervous system. As more oxygen is pumped to the brain, mental powers are heightened, reactions speed up and muscle function improves.
b) Tannin in green teaTannin is a natural component of tea. When released, tannin makes tea taste bitter or astringent. Tannin is released from steeped tea leaves after 2-4 minutes. The tannin in green tea works alongside with the caffeine that has a relaxing and stabilizing effect. This means the caffeine is absorbed more slowly and prevent that "caffeine shock" which used to happen during coffee or soda drink consumption.
c) Amino acids in green teaGreen tea contains L-theanine which directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, which promotes a state of relaxed awareness and has a calming effect on the body.
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