Myth-buster
A 3-year trial found green tea extract did not lower the risk of colon polyps returning overall — and for people with a specific gene variant, the placebo group actually had fewer recurrences (41.4% vs 35.7%).
This rigorous, double-blind study challenges the common belief that green tea prevents colorectal polyps, though a possible benefit in a genetic subgroup needs replication before any conclusion can be drawn — the overall evidence remains too thin to change practice.
In a 550-person, three-year trial, green tea extract failed to reduce the recurrence of colorectal adenomas compared to placebo. A subgroup analysis hinted that people without a specific SLCO1A2 gene variant might see a benefit, but those with the variant showed no improvement and even a slight, non-significant increase in recurrence. Because this is one of the first studies on this topic, the null overall result and the subgroup finding should be treated as preliminary, not definitive.
Where this fits in the evidence
This is among the first studies we've indexed on Green Tea for Reduced Colorectal Adenoma Recurrence — treat it as an early signal until more research accumulates.
The study
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- n = 550
- 2025-04-01
- Pharmacogenomics
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.