What Substance in green tea that effects the pH?

Catechins

Green tea contains a type of polyphenol called catechins, which are responsible for its slightly acidic taste and numerous health benefits. Catechins are natural antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. They also have antibacterial and antiviral properties. The most abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

The pH of green tea can vary depending on the type of tea, the amount of tea leaves used, and the brewing time. Generally, green tea has a pH of between 5 and 7, which is slightly acidic. This acidity is due to the presence of catechins and other organic acids in the tea.

The acidity of green tea can have some health benefits, such as improving digestion and absorption of nutrients. However, it can also be harmful to people with certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you have GERD, you may want to avoid drinking green tea or limit your intake to avoid triggering symptoms.

Overall, green tea is a healthy beverage with a variety of health benefits. The slightly acidic pH of green tea is due to the presence of catechins, which are natural antioxidants with numerous health benefits.