Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 102-111 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 108 Clinical trials have highlighted the potential of tea polyphenols in preventing and managing chronic diseases. However, addressing challenges related to bioavailability, dosage standardization, long-term effects, and mechanistic understanding is essential for advancing the clinical application of TP. 7 Applications and Practical Recommendations 7.1 Dietary guidelines involving tea polyphenols Tea polyphenols, including catechins, flavonoids, and tannins, have been extensively studied for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Incorporating tea polyphenols into dietary guidelines can help in the prevention and management of various chronic diseases. It is recommended to include a variety of teas such as green, black, and oolong tea in daily diets to maximize the intake of these beneficial compounds. Studies have shown that tea polyphenols can regulate gut flora, protect the intestinal mucosa, and prevent chronic diseases (Yan et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2022). Additionally, they have been found to improve lipid metabolism, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidative benefits, which are crucial for cardiovascular health (Cicero and Colletti, 2018; Giglio et al., 2018; Yan et al., 2020). 7.2 Recommendations for daily consumption For optimal health benefits, it is recommended to consume 3~5 cups of tea daily. This amount has been associated with significant improvements in antioxidant status and reductions in oxidative stress markers (Yan et al., 2020; Rudrapal et al., 2022a). Green tea, in particular, is rich in epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders (Rudrapal et al., 2022a; 2022b). It is important to note that the bioavailability of polyphenols can vary, so consuming tea with meals that contain healthy fats may enhance their absorption (Zhang et al., 2020). Additionally, individuals with specific health conditions or those taking certain medications should consult with healthcare providers before significantly increasing their tea consumption. 7.3 Future potential of tea polyphenols in functional foods The future potential of tea polyphenols in functional foods is promising. As natural antioxidants, tea polyphenols can be incorporated into a variety of food products to enhance their health benefits. Research suggests that tea polyphenols can be used to develop functional foods aimed at preventing and managing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders (Giglio et al., 2018; Yan et al., 2020; Olcha et al., 2022). For instance, incorporating tea polyphenols into snacks, beverages, and dietary supplements could provide an easy and effective way to increase daily polyphenol intake. Moreover, ongoing research into the mechanisms of action of tea polyphenols will likely lead to the development of more targeted and effective functional foods (Yan et al., 2020; Zhang et al., 2020). Tea polyphenols offer significant health benefits and should be considered in dietary guidelines and daily consumption recommendations. Their potential in functional foods also presents an exciting avenue for future research and development, aiming to improve public health outcomes through natural dietary interventions. 8 Future Research Directions 8.1 Emerging areas of research in tea polyphenols The field of tea polyphenols is rapidly evolving, with several emerging areas of research that hold promise for future discoveries. One such area is the role of tea polyphenols in modulating gut microbiota. Recent studies have shown that tea polyphenols can significantly alter the composition of intestinal flora, which in turn can impact overall health and disease prevention (Wang et al., 2022). Another emerging area is the potential of tea polyphenols in respiratory diseases. Research has indicated that (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenol in green tea, could be beneficial in treating various respiratory conditions, including COVID-19, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Mokra et al., 2022a). Additionally, the anti-cancer properties of tea polyphenols, particularly in endometrial cancer, are gaining attention. These compounds have shown antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties, making them suitable for long-term consumption and potential prophylactic use (Olcha et al., 2022).
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