1. Green Tea Extract: Enhances Fat Oxidation During Exercise?
Nicole Wirth
NUT
Fall 2013

2. Green tea extract: isolate of epigallocatechin-3-gallate + caffeine (varies per supplement). EGCG is classified as a flavonoid phytochemical which have antioxidant properties in the body, and has shown to decrease or shrink cancer cells. 1

3. Does EGCG Enhance Fat Oxidation During Exercise?
Eight male competitive cyclists in New Zealand
Teavigo supplementation (90% EGCG, 0.1% caffeine)
5x/day for 6 days
Required to refrain from additional green tea
Daily caffeine limited to 2 drinks/day 2
Eight male competitive cyclists in New Zealand (similar ht, wt, & build)
Teavigo supplementation (90% EGCG, 0.1% caffeine)
Placebo: 270 mg glucose powder capsules
5x/day for 6 days
Required to refrain from additional green tea
Daily caffeine limited to 2 drinks/day

4. Does EGCG Enhance Fat Oxidation During Exercise?
60 minute ride at 60% of VO2 Max
40K time trial at maximum effort
RER and blood samples before & during exercise
Study conducted 3x 2
60 minute ride at 60% of VO2 Max
40K time trial at maximum effort
RER and blood samples before & during
Study conducted 3x

5. Conclusion EGCG did not significantly affect fat oxidation:
At rest
During steady state exercise
During maximal effort exercise 2
Can possibly take for slight increase in Central Nervous System activity during endurance / high intensity activities (up to 20 minutes) 3
Not the best choice

6. References
1. Bhagwat S, Haytowitz DB, Holden JM. USDA Database for the Flavonoid Content of Selected Foods. September 2011, Release 3: 14, 23-24, 91. Available at: Accessed September 4, Dean S, Braakhuis A, Paton C. The Effects of EGCG on Fat Oxidation and Endurance Performance in Male Cyclists. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 2209; 20: Dunford M, Doyle JA. Nutrition for Sport and Exercise. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning; 2012: 20.