Metabolic response to epigallocatechin-3-gallate in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND: Muscle weakness and fatigue are common symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS). Green tea catechins such as (-)epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are known to improve energy metabolism at rest and during exercise. OBJECTIVE: We tested the hypothesis that EGCG improves energy metabolism and substrate utilization in patients with MS. DESIGN: Eighteen patients (8 men) with relapsing-remitting MS (expanded disability status scale score women). After placebo, exercise EE was mainly fueled by FAOx in both men and women. After EGCG, there was a shift to a higher and more stable CHOx during exercise in men but not in women. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that EGCG given to patients with MS over 12 wk improves muscle metabolism during moderate exercise to a greater extent in men than in women, possibly because of sex-specific effects on autonomic and endocrine control. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01417312