This Morning: Liz Earle discusses supplements for hair loss

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Obesity has become a serious health concern but there are an array of supposed weight management strategies claiming to help. The efficacy of these supplements, however, are up for debate. One supplement is said to help improve the metabolic function promoting weight loss.

Green coffee bean extract is relatively unknown but contains caffeine just like regular coffee beans.

It also has a stimulant which is linked to weight loss and boasts high levels of chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol antioxidant researchers speculate may promote weight loss.

This is achieved by reducing the absorption of fat and glucose in the gut and lowering insulin levels to improve metabolic function.

Green coffee extract (GCE) is present in green or raw coffee and is also present in roasted coffee, but much of the GCE is destroyed during the roasting process.

Some GCE constituents, such as chlorogenic acid (CGA) are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Extracted GCE is marketed as a weight loss supplement with evidence being accumulated from animal studies regarding the use of GCE as a possible weight loss supplement.

One study published in the US National Library of Medicine looked at green coffee extract as a weight loss solution.

The study noted: “There is also evidence that certain dietary phenols, including GCE, may modify intestinal glucose uptake in a number of ways.

“This activity might provide a basis for explaining its effects on body weight.

“The evidence from trials seems to indicate that the intake of GCE can promote weight loss.

“However, several caveats exist. The size of the effect is small, and the clinical relevance of this effect is uncertain.

“More rigorous trials with longer duration are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of GCE as a weight loss supplement.”

Scientists believe the high levels of chlorogenic acids in green coffee bean extract are key to its weight loss effects.

One review reported that chlorogenic acid may help lower blood sugar levels and reduce insulin spikes by reducing carbohydrate absorption in the digestive tract.

Chlorogenic acids are also known to boost fat metabolism, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and improve obesity-related hormone levels.

Much of the existing research is on rats, however, and more human studies are needed.

It’s important to consult with your GP before embarking on new supplements for weight loss.

Other possible supplements which could promote weight loss include:

• Iodine
• Vitamin D
• Fibre
• Iron
• Garcinia cambogia.

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