With there being an overwhelming choice of dietary supplements on the market, some good and some bad, it can be difficult to trust and rely on to provide real results. One of the main ingredients studied for its weight loss properties is coffee.
Coffee itself is not the primary weight loss tool here. Instead it is the high caffeine content that contains stimulant properties that helps increase metabolism, improves energy, burns fat and provides antioxidant benefits that are useful for losing weight.
There is an endless debate as to whether coffee beans are good or bad for you. Research and studies create much controversy on the matter. Today we will be discussing green coffee extract, the unroasted coffee beans which is believed to offer many health benefits.
Green coffee bean extract quickly became popular in the weight loss industry after being announced as the fat burner which can help you lose weight on the Dr. Oz Show in 2012. The show studied green coffee bean extract and its ability to help people lose weight. The results concluded successfully with those who took the extract losing more weight than those who took a placebo.
This traction grew the popularity of this supplement and is now one of the top searched weight loss solutions. This article will discuss how green coffee bean extract works, its uses, benefits, risks and more:
What is Green Coffee Bean Extract?
Green coffee beans are the beans/seeds from the Coffea fruit which have not yet been roasted. Coffee beans are naturally green but turn brown once roasted.
The green coffee bean extract that is used for various health reasons, comes from the bean that is unroasted as it maximizes effect and benefits in its natural and untouched state. During roasting, the coffee bean loses essential properties and effectiveness. The primary benefit of green coffee bean extract is weight loss.
There is a study that investigated the use of green coffee bean extract for weight loss and the results concluded positive. The study displays results from over 142 participants, of which all showed some degree of weight loss as a result of taking green coffee bean extract.
Other benefits include reducing blood pressure, cholesterol and providing the body with antioxidant effects. The belief is that its main active compound chlorogenic acid, is what is reliable for these various health benefits.
The reason for the coffee beans being used when green is due to the roasting process reducing the chlorogenic acid content. This compound is what holds the antioxidant properties that scientists believe supply and increase the health benefits.
In addition to this, green coffee beans are naturally rich in caffeine which is also considered to be an active ingredient that enhances health and promotes weight loss.
With that in mind, you may be wondering exactly how green coffee bean extract works and provides health benefits:
How does Green Coffee Bean Extract work?
Green coffee beans contain two stimulants closely associated with weight loss. One is caffeine, which is a natural fat burner and metabolism boosting ingredient. The second is the chlorogenic acid compound, found in the unroasted bean, which is a polyphenol antioxidant.
Polyphenol antioxidants work by reducing the amount of fat and glucose absorbed by the stomach. They also help lower insulin levels and increase metabolism, life caffeine does.
The benefits can only be reaped from coffee beans that have not yet been roasted. The roasting process reduces the amount and efficacy of chlorogenic acid. Therefore, to attain the health benefits, it is best consumed unroasted.
Here is more on the health benefits:
Benefits of Green Coffee Bean Extract
Green coffee extract supplementation contains a few active compounds that offer health properties, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid. The proven health benefits include:
1 – Green coffee bean extract for weight loss
There have been many review studies suggesting that coffee and its caffeine content aids weight loss. The studies display that caffeine consumption helps reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI) and body fat.
The second active compound of green coffee bean extract is chlorogenic acid, which helps the stomach stop the absorption of fat and glucose from food. A study funded by Applied Food Sciences Inc found that obese participants who took green coffee bean extract lost on average 18 pounds and 10 percent of their body fat over 22 weeks.
The other half of the participants took a placebo. All participants were encouraged to regularly exercise and maintain a healthy diet. Those who took the extract saw much greater results and more weight loss.
→ Good to know : You can also find green coffee bean extracts in LeanBean (where to buy) and PhenQ diet pills!
Furthermore, a 2011 study, which investigated green coffee bean extract in three ways, found that its chlorogenic acid content was the component that actively encouraged weight loss. The research suggests that green coffee bean extract is successful in aiding weight loss due to its chlorogenic acid content.
There is enough sufficient evidence to show that green coffee bean extract can successfully aid weight loss, help a person reduce their body fat and BMI.
2 – Reduces blood pressure
People that suffer with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can benefit from taking green coffee bean extract. In a study taken on hypertension patients, the results revealed that those who took 400 mg of the extract for 4 weeks significantly saw a reduction in blood pressure.
It is suggested that it is only those that have high blood pressure should take green coffee bean extract to reap its blood pressure benefit. Taking it without hypertension can cause the blood pressure level to drop too low.
3 – Helps with type 2 diabetes
Due to green coffee bean extract showing results for improving glucose and insulin for weight loss, scientists studied the effects of chlorogenic acid in the extract on type 2 diabetic patients.
Various reports show that green coffee beans can help reduce the absorption of glucose in the blood. In particular, for type 2 diabetes it is important that it can improve insulin levels. A 2020 report concluded that patients who took 400 mg or more of green coffee bean extract per day saw an improvement in insulin levels.
During the first stages of studies, much research suggested there was conflict between the extract and diabetes. However, since this study was a success it was concluded that a high dosage of the extract is needed to be consumed in order to see improvements.
→ Also, have a look at Capsicum, it helps to lower your cholesterol!
4 – Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
There is an abundance of research into green coffee beans are their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. They are naturally rich in antioxidative compounds which offer numerous advantages.
Inflammation of the cells can cause many harmful conditions and diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis and autoimmune disease. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory properties of green coffee beans can help reduce or inhibit the risk of developing these health conditions.
The green coffee beans antioxidative properties are beneficial for anti-aging and the appearance of the skin. The chlorogenic acid is the saviour again here. The compound works to slow down aging, reduce redness and limits sunlight and photo damage.
→ Also, check the benefits of Açaí Berry
5 – Improves energy and mood
Many may associate coffee with energy in a bad way. Caffeine intake, especially in high doses, can cause people to crash. However, green coffee beans have positive effects on energy and mood.
The American Psychological Association (APA) showed that the caffeine concentration in green coffee beans can improve cognitive performance. It can boost energy when consumed first thing in the morning and due to its blood pressure reduction ability, this can maintain energy balance.
A boost in energy will also improve your mood, science suggests. An increase in energy and reduction in blood pressure can help balance your brain’s serotonin levels. Your hormones become balanced and more motivated and content.
Understanding more about the composition of green coffee bean extract may help you comprehend more about how it works:
Ingredients of Green Coffee Bean Extract
Coffee is composed differently depending on the type of bean it is. The stronger the coffee bean, the higher concentration of chlorogenic acids, caffeine and other derivatives will be. However, all green coffee beans hold a high concentration of chlorogenic acid, the compound which provides the health benefits, due to them being unroasted.
It is important to understand that the chlorogenic acid content will vary depending on the coffee bean, roasting process and preparation of the bean. As stated previously, the chlorogenic acid content reduces during the roasting process and is where the coffee bean turns brown. This reduces the effect of the coffee beans benefits. Therefore, to reap the benefits always consume when they are green.
If you are wondering who exactly green coffee bean is for and who can best reap the benefits, here is more:
Who is Green Coffee Bean Extract for?
As green coffee bean extract is a natural product and is safe, most people can take it. However, whether or not you should take it depends on what health benefits you are trying to achieve.
If you are seeking weight loss, green coffee bean extract has enough sufficient evidence to prove its efficacy. It works best for overweight or obese people as the weight loss properties work to decrease body fat and BMI. People who have more weight to lose will likely be the people to witness maximum results.
Similarly, anyone seeking energy endurance and mood improvements will gain benefits from daily consumption of the extract.
Other benefits include lowering blood pressure and helping improve insulin levels for type 2 diabetes patients. Therefore, those who suffer with these conditions should and can benefit from taking green coffee bean extract. Those without these conditions may not reap these specific benefits as the extracts main active components will not have anything to work with and improve.
It is important to understand the weight loss supplement like green coffee bean extract should not be considered as the only method for weight loss. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are a verified source that recommend reducing daily calorie intake by 500 to 1,000 calories and partaking in 60 or more minutes of physical activity 4 to 5 days a week.
To reap the benefits, it is important to understand how to take it:
How to use Green Coffee Bean Extract
Knowing how to use green coffee bean extracts is important to see real results. The dosages to respect is essential to be aware of in order to ensure you are not taking too much or too little. Dosages may vary depending on the product, the benefits you are seeking and also your age, existing medical conditions and current health.
When to start and when to stop?
You can begin taking the extract at any time, if you are fit and healthy to do so. It is important to discuss with your doctor whether any existing medical conditions could interact with the extract. Similarly, if you notice any symptoms or side effects whilst taking the extract, stop taking it immediately and seek professional advice.
If you are looking to start taking the extract, it is suggested that it is best consumed in the morning before eating to attain maximum results.
What are the dosages to respect?
Green coffee bean extract is sold as a pill/supplement and is typically how it is consumed. If you are taking it this way, a typical dose is between 60 to 185 milligrams per day. Dosages may vary depending on brand and reason for taking it, so always check the label to see what is recommended.
What to do if you forget to take green coffee bean extract?
Supplements are a form of medication that is not harmful if you forget to take. However, if you forget to take it for a few days, the benefits may start to reduce. Missing one or two doses will not affect your results but take the next dose accordingly to attain the rewards.
What to do in case of overdose? (if it’s possible)
For the most part, green coffee beans are safe. But, it has been reported that ingesting too much chlorogenic acid could increase the risk of heart disease due to the elevated intake of homocysteine, an amino acid.
Overconsumption can also increase the development or seriousness of a side effect. It can elevate anxiety, heart rate and restlessness. It is advised to stick to the recommended dosage to inhibit any consequences.
Precautions to take when taking green coffee bean extract
If you suffer with any of the below conditions, it is recommended to take precautions and seek medical advice before taking green coffee bean extract. There is not yet enough sufficient evidence to suggest if it is safe if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Suffer with anxiety
- Have thinning bones (osteoporosis)
- Have glaucoma
How to keep the green coffee bean extract?
Green coffee bean extract typically comes as a pill and is best stored in its sealed container. To make sure your product is always safe to consume, always keep them in the original container and if the seal becomes broken or loose, discard and do not take anymore. Pills can easily become contaminated and if they coincide with harmful substances, you may not be aware.
Now you understand the dosage recommendations, here is more on the risks and side effects of green coffee bean extract:
Risks, Hazards and Side Effects of Green Coffee Bean Extract
Due to green coffee bean extract containing the same ingredients as coffee itself, it has the same side effects. Most are harmless and with extensive research on coffee beans safety, it is mostly safe to take.
However, if you have any concerns it is advised to seek advice from a professional to ensure you are not taking any medications that could coincide with green coffee bean extract. The side effects that have been reported from coffee beans are:
- Stomach upset
- Increased heart rate
- More than frequent urination
- Jitteriness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
With coffee beans being a natural product, there are very few risks and side effects for most people. However it is important to be aware that coffee beans can be a risk for certain existing medical conditions.
Most reported side effects are from users of the product. See more and reviews from regular users below:
Green Coffee Bean Extract Reviews
Most users of green coffee bean extract give positive reviews as they see positive results. Many state that the pill provides them with energy, helps suppress their appetite and has shown efficacy for weight loss.
Reviews suggest that the advantages and results stop and are not sustainable when stopping consumption, therefore to attain the best results you must stick to taking it daily. With there being quite a few on the market, this article shows reviews from one of the top selling green coffee bean extracts on Amazon, by EarthWell.
Reviews of the product does not necessarily mean you will attain the same results. It is recommended to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet if you are seeking weight loss goals in order to maximize and sustain results.
As it appears, most users of the extract take it for weight loss. However, science does suggest it can be used for blood pressure, diabetes and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
For more information on where to purchase green coffee bean extract, find more in our complete buying guide:
The complete buying guide for Green Coffee Bean Extract
When purchasing green coffee bean extract, or any supplement for that matter, it is important to check its verification. A non-verified product cannot guarantee to be safe to take. To check this, look for FTC and FDA approvals. Both governing bodies check the ingredients of products for their authenticity and safety. Once approved, they will be labelled which provides their legitimacy.
What to look for when buying
You should be sceptical to products without verification and products that label themselves as a quick way to lose weight loss. The best products will be verified and labelled according to the scientifically proven benefits they can provide. You can check the legitimacy of the company you’re buying from on the FTC website.
Also before taking, discuss your supplement choice with your doctor, especially if you have other conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, or are taking medications, to avoid any health complications.
Where to buy green coffee bean extract from
Most health stores, in store and online, sell some form of green coffee bean extract. Some sell as powders whilst most sell as pills/supplements. You can purchase them from stores such as Holland & Barrett, Walmart, Amazon and Boots as well as health food stores. It is best to buy from a verified seller to ensure you are buying a safe product.
How much?
Green coffee bean extract as supplements can be anywhere from $10 to $30. The lower end of the budget can still offer legitimate advantages and real results. The best products are not necessarily the most expensive, instead are the extracts with natural and authentic ingredients.
All medications have pros and cons, for information on that for green coffee beans, see more here:
Pros and Cons of Green Coffee Bean Extract
Like all health and diet products, green coffee bean extract comes with both pros and cons, such as:
| PROS | CONS |
| Promote weight loss | Medicinal interactions |
| Boosts energy | Increases anxiety and restlessness |
| Antioxidant effect | Large amounts can reverse the effect |
| Very few harmless side effects | |
| Provides metabolism support |
If you have any more burning questions or any concerns have not yet been covered, here are some answers to the top searched questions on green coffee bean extract:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is green coffee bean extract bad for your kidneys?
Some reports show that green coffee beans can cause more harm than necessary to those with existing kidney conditions. The National Kidney Foundation suggests that herbal supplements can increase the toxicity in the kidneys.
The main function of the kidneys is to eliminate waste and if toxins increase, it can not effectively do this. There is not enough research to say whether they are safe, so it is advised to speak to your doctor before consuming.
Can green coffee bean extract reduce belly fat?
As green coffee bean extract is primarily used for weight loss, it can indeed reduce belly fat. The aim of the extract is to be used for weight loss and fat reduction.
How much weight can I lose with green coffee?
Studies have shown significant weight loss with regular consumption of green coffee bean extract. There is not a guaranteed amount of weight a person can lose as it depends on age, health, lifestyle and diet. Regular exercise and a healthy diet is advised when taking the extract for maximum and guaranteed results.
Is green coffee good for skin?
The chlorogenic acid content found in green coffee beans is beneficial for the skin. The compound has antioxidative properties which can slow down aging, reduce redness and rough texture. Chlorogenic acid also has anti-inflammatory benefits which can improve the appearance of skin conditions that are caused by inflammation, such as spots and acne.
With all of the necessary information to understand and take away, let us tell you our thoughts:
Does green coffee bean extract reduce belly fat?
Yes, it does. Studies have shown that in addition, it also aids with losing weight.
How long does it take for green coffee bean extract to work?
-With a recommended dosage, effects are seen within 8 to 12 weeks.
Does green coffee extract make you poop?
Increasing your intake of green coffee extract or taking it too frequently in hopes of seeing effects can result to excess bowel movement.
Conclusion
Green coffee bean extract is proven to be effective and beneficial for many health reasons, especially as a weight loss aid. Evidence shows that the benefits come from its chlorogenic acid content which can help improve metabolism, body fat, blood pressure, insulin, energy, skin, mood and more.
Coffee is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, therefore these two advantages are provided by the caffeine content. However, both active ingredients contribute to green coffee bean extract being successful as a health aid.
With little to no risks and side effects, green coffee beans are safe to consume and add to a healthy diet and lifestyle. To reap the maximum weight loss benefits, it is best to sustain a healthy lifestyle and work with the ingredients to amplify results and the longevity of them.
Always seek medical advice from your doctor before taking these, like with any supplement, to ensure you are healthy and do not have existing conditions that could cause contraindications.
Let us know your comments and results. Feel free to share with those seeking similar health benefits.
