薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to assess the efficacy and safety of a green tea catechin-rich beverage on abdominal fat area and body weight in obese individuals. Methods After a 4-week pre-observation period, 150 overweight individuals(mean body mass index[BMI]±standard error of the mean[SEM], 27.21±1.28; mean age, 47.1±9.1 years)were divided into the catechin group, in which subjects consumed a tea catechin-rich beverage(540 mg tea catechins, 14 mg caffeine, 500 mL╱day), and the placebo group, in which subjects consumed a placebo beverage(0 mg tea catechins, 14 mg caffeine, 500 mL╱day), for 12 weeks, followed by another 4-week post-observation period. Results At week 12, the amount of change from baseline(week 0)in abdominal visceral fat area(ΔVFA), the primary endpoint, was significantly greater in the catechin group (ΔVFA=－5.99±16.31 cm2)than in the placebo group(ΔVFA=0.30±17.56 cm2). Secondary endpoints, including total visceral fat area, subcutaneous fat area, and body weight, were also significantly lower in the catechin group than in the placebo group. The incidence of adverse events and safety parameters did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusion Continuous consumption of the tea catechin-rich beverage for 12 weeks effectively decreased abdominal fat area and body weight with no side effects. Trial registration The study protocol was pre-registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry. The registration number: UMIN000023491.