EGCG vs Green Tea Extract: Isolation vs Spectrum
Green Tea Extract (GTE) is a concentrated form of green tea leaves. It contains everything: Caffeine, L-Theanine, and Catechins.
EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) is just one of those catechins—the most powerful one. Buying pure EGCG allows you to get the fat-burning benefits without the caffeine stimulation.
| Feature | EGCG | Green Tea Extract |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Single Molecule | Full Spectrum |
| Standard Caffeine | None (Usually) | Yes (~5-10%) |
| Primary Goal | Fat Loss / Cancer Prevention | General Health / Energy |
| Liver Safety | Risk at high doses (800mg+) | Generally Safe |
Mechanisms: Metabolism and COMT
EGCG: The Fat Burner
EGCG inhibits an enzyme called COMT. COMT breaks down norepinephrine (adrenaline).
By stopping the breakdown of adrenaline, your body stays in "fat burning mode" slightly longer.
What it means
It keeps the fire burning.
Green Tea Extract: The Synergist
Green Tea Extract provides EGCG, but it also provides Caffeine and L-Theanine. Caffeine releases adrenaline. EGCG keeps it around. L-Theanine smooths it out.
What it means
It is a complete metabolic stack in one powder.
Which One Matches Your Goal?
For Fat Loss (Stimulant Free)
Winner: EGCG.
If you drink coffee and don't want *more* caffeine from your supplements, pure EGCG (decaffeinated extract) is the choice.
For General Wellness
Winner: Green Tea Extract.
The "entourage effect" of the other catechins and compounds in the full extract likely offers broader health benefits than EGCG alone.
The Verdict
Choose EGCG if: You are caffeine-sensitive or want to specifically target the COMT enzyme mechanism.
Choose Green Tea Extract if: You want the benefits of drinking 10 cups of green tea in a single capsule.