Abstract

Helicobacter infection, one of the most common bacterial infections in man worldwide, is a type 1 carcinogen and the most important risk factor for gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori bacterial factors, components of the host genetics and immune response, dietary cofactors and decreased acid secretion resulting in bacterial overgrowth are all considered important factors for induction of gastric cancer. Components found in green tea have been shown to inhibit bacterial growth, including the growth of Helicobacter spp. In this study, we assessed the bactericidal and/or bacteriostatic effect of green tea against Helicobacter felis and H. pylori in vitro and evaluated the effects of green tea on the development of Helicobacter-induced gastritis in an animal model. Our data clearly demonstrate profound growth effects of green tea against Helicobacter and, importantly, demonstrate that green tea consumption can prevent gastric mucosal inflammation if ingested prior to exposure to Helicobacter infection. Research in the area of natural food compounds and their effects on various disease states has gained increased acceptance in the past several years. Components within natural remedies such as green tea could be further used for prevention and treatment of Helicobacter-induced gastritis in humans.