Coffee is a beverage that has been known to humanity for thousands of years, and it still continues to surprise us. One of the most recent discoveries was the weight loss properties of un-roasted coffee, or green coffee beans. In fact, the extract derived from green coffee beans is among the most effective weight loss supplements on the market today.

The difference between green coffee, and the brown colored coffee bean you’re more accustomed to seeing which becomes the caffeinated beverage that jump starts most people’s day, is the roasting process. Quite simply, green coffee is the same as brown coffee, it just hasn’t been roasted yet. The roasting process is what gives the characteristic taste to the brew, and what prepares the bean for grinding. Roasting is performed at the extremely high temperature of 475 degrees, which destroys several chemical compounds found within the bean. One of the destroyed compounds is chlorogenic acid, which, according to new studies, can lower the rate at which our bodies absorb glucose, allowing for a higher rate of fat burning. The acid is what makes the extract a potent weight loss supplement, both on its own or as an ingredient in other weight loss products.

The previously mentioned study which determined the usefulness of green coffee bean extract as a weight loss compound, was conducted in 2011 with 16 adults as test subjects. The group was separated, with one half receiving a placebo product, and the others taking genuine green coffee bean extract. Though the study was limited due to the small pool of subjects, the results were clear.

All participants of the green coffee group lost significant amounts of weight, averaging at around 17 pounds. The study lasted for a total of 5 months, which equals to a loss of an average of 16% of body fat. The participants were required to adhere to a standardized diet and exercise regimen. The average daily intake of calories for the participants was 2400 calories. The group taking placebo supplements only burned a total of 400 calories, while the ones taking genuine green coffee extract exhibited a much higher rate of fat burning.

Ever since the publication of this initial study, several prestigious agencies have been providing extensive media coverage on green coffee extract weight loss supplements. Since the substance became popular, a flood of new studies have been conducted, all resulting in heightened weight loss rates which can be attributed to the chlorogenic acid.

As its popularity grew, so did the demand for green coffee extract supplements, which resulted in a slew of products flooding the market.

There are many factors to consider when picking your preferred supplement. You should always look for a product which is comprised of 100% pure green coffee bean extract. Naturally, the ingredients involved with the pill itself (such as gelatin) can be disregarded. Other than this, an ideal level of chlorogenic acid saturation is at around 50%, though 40% is still acceptable. The final factor is the amount of the substance found within each pill. This should always be in the upper end of the 400-800 mg range.