If you are looking for an effective and easy weight loss solution, you have probably heard about green coffee extract. The main difference between this and the traditional beverage is that green coffee is extracted without roasting the coffee bean.
Roasting gives coffee its wonderful aroma and removes the bitter taste of the fresh bean. However, roasting also destroys many useful compounds found in green coffee, including chlorogenic acid, the substance that is believed to cause weight loss. Chlorogenic acid is the main active ingredient in this supplement.
The Science Behind The Weight Loss Benefits
Besides chlorogenic acid, which is the main active substance, green coffee also contains other substances like trigonelline, lignans and quinides. Animal studies have shown that consumption of these substances improves glucose processing in the body.
Studies show that chlorogenic acid blocks an enzyme that increases the production of glucose in the liver. Drinking coffee regularly is believed to lower the risk of diabetes and chlorogenic acid and other compounds discussed previously may be responsible for that benefit.
In addition to its effect on glucose metabolism, chlorogenic acid is believed to retard the absorption of fat from food. Studies also show that it may increase fat metabolism. The combination of these effects is the ideal scenario for losing weight. Studies in humans indicate that the extract could be an effective weight loss solution.
Human Studies Into The Effectiveness Of Green Coffee Extract
In 2012, a study was conducted on 16 overweight adults for 12 weeks. Supplements containing the extract with different concentrations of chlorogenic acid were given to the candidates. During the study period, the average weight loss observed was about 18 pounds. They also lost, on an average, more than 4% of their body fat.
Another study was conducted by Dr. Oz Show on 100 overweight or obese women with no known diseases or medical conditions. The test group received supplements containing 1200mg of green coffee extract in three equally divided doses, while the remaining people received a placebo. After two weeks, the test group lost one pound more than the placebo group with similar diets and physical activity.
How Safe Is Green Coffee Extract?
In general, the extract is believed to be safe for normal healthy individuals at the recommended dosage that is mentioned on the package of the supplement being used. However, coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant. Green coffee supplements without caffeine are also available, but it is better to make sure that you don't fall into one of the following groups for whom the extract is not recommended.
1. Safety during pregnancy and breast-feeding is not established.
2. Green coffee supplements containing caffeine can increase anxiety. It is not recommended for people who are suffering from anxiety disorders or depression.
3. Due to its effect on glucose levels, people suffering from diabetes should not take it without consulting their doctor.
4. People suffering from clotting or bleeding disorders should not take it as it could worsen their condition.
5. It is not suitable for people suffering from diarrhoea, IBS, glaucoma, hypertension or osteoporosis as caffeine can make their condition worse.
Green coffee extract, especially supplements with caffeine, may cause side-effects similar to drinking regular coffee such as loss of sleep, jittery and restless feeling, and increased pulse and respiratory rates. Similar symptoms are also possible when the supplements are discontinued. If you are drinking coffee regularly, noticeable side-effects are unlikely, especially when a supplement without caffeine is taken.
Green coffee extract may be an effective and natural weight loss solution that can help you lose weight. For good weight loss results with supplements, it is also essential to maintain a healthy diet and do moderate exercise. Buy only good quality supplements that contain chlorogenic acid as one of the main ingredients. It may often be listed in the ingredients as GCA or Svetol.
