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Antioxidant

Green Coffee Bean Extract

Also known as: Coffea arabica extract, GCBE, chlorogenic acid extract, unroasted coffee bean extract

C
Evidence

Green coffee bean extract is derived from unroasted coffee beans and is rich in chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol with antioxidant properties. Limited human evidence suggests modest effects on weight management and metabolic markers, though results are inconsistent and effect sizes are small.

Primary uses

  • Weight management support
  • Metabolic health
  • Antioxidant support
  • Blood sugar regulation

How it works

  • Chlorogenic acid inhibits glucose absorption in the small intestine
  • May increase fat oxidation and reduce hepatic glucose production
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity via polyphenol content

Dosage

Typical range
200-400 mg chlorogenic acid daily (typically 400-800 mg extract)
Timing
With meals, preferably morning or early afternoon
With food
May be taken with or without food; some evidence suggests taking with meals may enhance glucose regulation effects
Duration
Most studies used 8-12 weeks; longer-term safety and efficacy data are limited
Special populations
Pregnancy/nursing: insufficient data; caffeine-sensitive individuals should note small residual caffeine content (varies by processing)

Forms

  • Powder· 70/100
  • Capsule· 70/100
  • Tablet· 70/100
  • Liquid extract· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Minimal reported; some gastrointestinal discomfort at higher doses
  • Mild headache (possibly caffeine-related)
  • Jitteriness in sensitive individuals

Contraindications

  • Caffeine sensitivity or severe anxiety disorder (due to trace caffeine)
  • Uncontrolled hypertension (limited data; proceed cautiously)
  • Pregnancy and lactation (insufficient safety data)

Evidence notes

Moderate preliminary evidence from small human trials shows modest weight loss (1-3 lbs) in some studies, but high heterogeneity, publication bias concerns, and small sample sizes limit confidence. Most robust data comes from in vitro and animal studies. Quality human RCTs are lacking.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.