Green coffee: A weight loss miracle?
Arab News interviewed nutritionist Dr. Shaima Zahir to learn more about green coffee and its effects. Green coffee is extracted from red/violet fruits. The most important type of green coffee is the Arabic coffee, which contains what is known as chlorogenic acid used for the purpose of weight loss, but unfortunately, roasting coffee loses 70 percent of this acid and thereby, loses its ability to reduce weight, Kazinform has learnt from Arab News . Green coffee can be found either in the form of pills to be consumed half an hour before meals or as coffee prepared as usual, which is considered less effective because of roasted coffee beans. Thus, medications that contain green coffee extract are more widespread and effective.
Benefits of green coffee: Chlorogenic acid contributes in controlling blood sugar levels when consuming carbohydrates, thus, in the rate of absorption of carbohydrates by the body which leads to a higher consumption of fat for energy production, thereby, reducing the rate of fat stored inside the body. In addition to weight loss, green coffee is considered an anti-oxidant that may contribute to the prevention of diseases. A study carried out in 2012 proved its effectiveness and safety for diabetic patients.
How to evaluate the efficacy of the product: There are now many products in the green coffee market and the Internet, which has led to an increasing confusion about which product is better. To find out the best of these products, you should look for the active ingredient on the label, which is often presented in one of the following formats: CGA (more common) or Svetol. If it contains one of the two elements, it means it has the active material, but if it does not, you should avoid that product. The efficiency of the coffee is also evaluated depending on the percentage of the active substance it contains. There are many products in the market that contain a small percentage of the active substance and are thus, ineffective. Studies indicate the percentage of the active substance required to make an impact ranges between 400 to 700 mg. It is available for one to see on the label of the coffee package. Consumption should not exceed 1200 mg for 12 weeks, in case of which you should stop consuming the product for two months and then start again.
Before using green coffee: First, you should consult your doctor before starting. Diabetic patients must notify the doctor about their use of green coffee as it contributes in reducing the level of sugar and, therefore, may require a change in medication or insulin dosage. Also, patients with blood pressure or heart disease must always pay more attention to their pressure, as green coffee contains a percentage of caffeine, which may affect blood pressure. In case of any disorder in the blood pressure readings, the patient must stop using the coffee immediately. People suffering from digestive disorders or what is known as IBS are not recommended to consume green coffee as it may worsen the problem. In case they want to stop the use of green tea, they should do so by gradually reducing the intake. Side effects of green coffee are same as those caused by the presence of caffeine in regular coffee. However, side effects from the consumption of large quantities of chlorogenic acid or the active ingredient in green coffee have not been proven because of the inadequacy of the studies carried out. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid green coffee for the same reason. Finally, we must clarify that there is no so-called magical pill that helps you get rid of your weight instantly. The essential thing to do to reach the ideal weight and maintain it starts by the adoption of a healthy diet, in addition to medicines, herbs and natural recipes used only as a supplement.