Green coffee refers to unroasted coffee beans that have not undergone the roasting process. These coffee beans are harvested from the coffee plant and are typically light green or yellow in color. Unlike roasted coffee beans, green coffee beans have a relatively mild flavor and a higher level of acidity.
Green coffee beans contain a variety of compounds, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid. Chlorogenic acid is believed to have antioxidant properties and may provide various health benefits, such as helping to regulate blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation.
Green coffee beans are often used to make green coffee extract, which is marketed as a dietary supplement. Green coffee extract is typically sold in pill form and is claimed to help with weight loss and improve cardiovascular health. However, the evidence for these claims is mixed and more research is needed to determine the potential health benefits of green coffee.
Does Green Coffee work as a weight loss supplement?
Green coffee has been marketed as a weight loss supplement due to its high content of chlorogenic acid, which is believed to have an effect on metabolism and blood sugar levels. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of green coffee as a weight loss supplement is mixed and more research is needed to confirm its potential benefits.
Some studies have suggested that green coffee extract may help with weight loss. For example, a 2012 study published in the journal Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy found that subjects who took green coffee extract experienced a significant decrease in body weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage compared to those who took a placebo.
However, other studies have found no significant effects on weight loss or have had conflicting results. For example, a 2011 study published in the Journal of International Medical Research found that subjects who took green coffee extract did not experience significant weight loss compared to those who took a placebo.
Overall, the evidence for the effectiveness of green coffee as a weight loss supplement is mixed, and more research is needed to determine its potential benefits and risks. It’s also important to note that, like with any supplement, green coffee extract should not be relied upon as a sole method for weight loss and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.
May reduce your risk of some chronic diseases
Green coffee may have health benefits beyond weight loss. Green coffee beans are rich in a variety of compounds, including chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and antioxidants, which may have potential health benefits. Some of the potential health benefits of green coffee include:
- Improved heart health: Green coffee may help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
- Antioxidant properties: Green coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and damage from free radicals.
- Better blood sugar control: Chlorogenic acid in green coffee may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Reduced inflammation: Green coffee contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Improved cognitive function: Caffeine in green coffee may improve cognitive function and alertness.
However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of green coffee, and the evidence for some of these claims is mixed. As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking green coffee extract or any other supplement to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
The bottom line
Green coffee refers to the raw beans of the coffee plant.
Its extract was popularized as a weight loss supplement, and it may promote healthy blood sugar and blood pressure levels, though research on its effectiveness is limited.
Few adverse effects have been reported, but its caffeine content may cause side effects.
If you’re considering adding green coffee to your routine, consult your healthcare provider to make sure it’s safe for you.
You can also use the whole beans to make a hot beverage.
If you’re interested in trying green coffee or its extract, you can find supplements online here.