Compound in Green Tea Plus Exercise Can Slow, Reverse Alzheimer’s University of Missouri researchers have determined that a compound found in green tea, and voluntary exercise, slows the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in mice and may reverse its effects. Further study of the commonly found extract could lead to advancements in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease in humans. “In Alzheimer’s patients, amyloid-beta peptide (A-beta) can accumulate and clump together causing amyloid plaques in the brain,” said Todd Schachtman, professor of psychological sciences in the College of Arts and Science at MU. “Symptoms can include increased memory loss and confusion, agitation and a lack of concern for your environment and surroundings. We looked at ways of preventing or postponing the onset of the disease which we hope can eventually lead to an improvement of health status and quality of life for the elderly.” Researchers decided to investigate the effects of voluntary exercise and a green tea extract on memory function and A-beta levels in mice known to show plaque deposits and behavior deficits. Oral administration of the extract, as well as voluntary exercise, improved some of the behavioral manifestations and cognitive impairments of Alzheimer’s. Researchers noted that consumption of natural products as potential remedies to prevent and treat diseases and to maintain human health is an ancient one. I say drink more green tea.