EGCG induces degradation of active folate in serum via H2O2 generation, while L-ascorbic acid effectively reverses this effect

Abstract

Empirical studies have indicated that excessive tea consumption may potentially decrease folate levels within the human body. The main active component in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), significantly reduces the concentration of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) in both solution and serum. However, our findings also demonstrate that the pro-degradation effect of EGCG on 5-MTHF can be reversed by L-ascorbic acid (AA). Subsequent investigations suggest that EGCG could potentially expedite the degradation of 5-MTHF by generating hydrogen peroxide. In summary, excessive tea intake may lead to reduced folate levels in the bloodstream, yet timely supplementation of AA could potentially safeguard folate from degradation.