Green coffee extract is a health supplement made from unroasted beans from the coffee plant. It is thought to be an antioxidant, working to stimulate beneficial cell growth and preventing aging effects on the skin. It also is believed to provide other health benefits, such as weight loss and blood sugar control. Although the use of green coffee extract should be discussed with a medical provider before use, it is not believed to have any negative side effects, particularly in healthy people.
Typically, green coffee extract is purchased in the form of capsules, tablets, and powder. The capsules and tablets vary in dosage from 100 milligrams to 500 milligrams each. The powder is often dissolved in hot water and consumed, similar to a cup of instant black coffee. Some medical providers may recommend that a person take several capsules or tablets each day, while others may limit the dosage. In addition, many people are advised not to take the product with dairy products, as they may affect the potency of one of the active ingredients, polyphenol.
One of the main reasons why some take green coffee extract is for weight loss. The extract contains a naturally occurring chemical called chlorogenic acid, which some believe reduces the size of the fat cells in the body. In addition, they think that the extract helps to burn the fat in the body. If true, both factors would work to cause a person to lose weight.
Some people believe that green coffee extract helps diabetics maintain healthy blood glucose levels as well. For example, it is thought to lower the levels of glucose in the blood and also raise the amount of glycogen. In addition, it is thought to prevent an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphatase from releasing glucose from the liver, which helps to slow the amount of glucose entering the bloodstream.
Other benefits of green coffee extract include its use as an antiaging supplement and its use to lower blood pressure. Specifically, it is believed to be a source of antioxidants, working to regenerate cells and stop the aging effects on the skin. It is also believed to fight hypertension or high blood pressure.
Green coffee extract is low in caffeine, so it has few to no side effects related to caffeine consumption. Some people are recommended to use the product with caution if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the effect of the extract on these groups of people have not been studied. In addition, people with diseases, such as cancer, HIV, and hepatitis C should not use the product unless they consult a doctor.
