Green tea reinvented: a powerful solution to hidden hunger and oxidative stress

Hidden hunger is a condition characterized by a deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals at the cellular level despite adequate caloric intake, affecting approximately two billion people globally. These micronutrient deficiencies can impair the immune system and increase the risk of oxidative stress, contributing to the development of various degenerative and non-communicable diseases. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is known for its high antioxidant content, particularly catechins, which have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and enhance micronutrient absorption. This study focuses on the development of a green tea extract with enhanced antioxidant properties through improved extraction techniques and nutraceutical fortification. The resulting product offers a practical solution for meeting daily antioxidant and micronutrient requirements, supporting a healthy lifestyle and offering potential health benefits, including disease prevention and therapeutic effects. Antioxidant consumption is anticipated to become a significant future trend, as antioxidants play a critical role in strengthening the body’s defense mechanisms against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and in the prevention of various diseases.