Q. How good is green coffee bean extract for weight loss?
A. A meta-analysis of research on green coffee bean extract as a weight loss aid suggests that it helps people lose about two pounds a month (Gastroenterology Research and Practice, online Aug. 31, 2010). Consumerlab.com has found that pills containing green coffee bean extract are of variable quality, however.
A small study of 16 overweight individuals using the commercial standardized extract GCA™ found that those taking the green coffee extract lost roughly 18 pounds in four months (Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy, online Jan. 18, 2012).
Scientists assume that the active ingredient in green coffee bean extract is chlorogenic acid, but they do not know how it works. It may affect the absorption or metabolism of sugars from the digestive tract. If this extract can help a person stay focused on sticking to a sensible diet , it might be worth a try.
Years ago, one reader came up with her own weight loss formula based on green tea and cinnamon. Here is Lisa’s Weight Loss Elixir: Put 5 decaffeinated green tea bags in 5 cups of water and bring to a full boil. Let steep 5 minutes, remove and discard tea bags.
Add 2 level tablespoons baking soda and stir (tea will foam). Add 1/3 cup ground cinnamon and stir briefly. Cover and let steep.
Cool the tea and move it to the refrigerator. Allow it to settle for at least two days. Then pour off and save the liquid and discard the solids (unless you know a 10-year-old who needs a science fair project on slime with attitude).
Add 1 packet Certo liquid pectin, 1/2 cup cider vinegar, 1/2 cup lime or lemon juice, 5 cups unsweetened juice (any combination of pomegranate, black or sour cherry, sugar-free cranberry or grape) and 1/3 to 1/2 cup Splenda to taste. Stir. Keep refrigerated. Drink 1/3 cup before each meal or snack. Lisa avoids high glycemic foods (white stuff like sugar, bread, pasta, potatoes and rice) because she has insulin resistance. Others may also find this helps.
