Overview
Green coffee bean extract (GCBE) is rich in chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties. Clinical evidence suggests GCBE supplementation may support cardiovascular and metabolic health by modestly reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and aiding weight management. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that GCBE significantly lowers systolic blood pressure (SBP) by ~2.95 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by ~2.15 mmHg, with greater effects observed at doses ≥400 mg/day and in individuals with baseline hypertension [6][2][8]. GCBE also significantly reduces total cholesterol (WMD: -4.51 mg/dL) and LDL cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol [5][7]. A 12-week trial with a patented 70% chlorogenic acid extract (GCB70®) showed significant reductions in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and plasma leptin in overweight individuals, suggesting a role in healthy weight management [6]. Additionally, animal studies indicate GCBE enhances antioxidant defenses by boosting glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis and may offer radioprotective effects [1][3]. A single 100 mg dose of whole coffee fruit extract (a form of GCBE) increased plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by 143%, suggesting potential neuroprotective effects [4].
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
High-potency, water-soluble extract with 70% chlorogenic acid and minimal caffeine; studied for weight and metabolic health
May enhance BDNF; used in cognitive and neuroprotective contexts
Clinical Notes
- Avoid high doses in individuals with anxiety or caffeine sensitivity, even with low-caffeine extracts, due to potential trace amounts.
- May interact with antihypertensive medications; monitor blood pressure to avoid hypotension.
- Long-term safety beyond 12-16 weeks not well established; most trials are short-term.
- Theoretical risk of liver toxicity at very high doses; monitor liver enzymes if used long-term or in high doses.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited safety data, despite low caffeine content in some formulations.
Research
Lightly roasted coffee extract improved redox status in rats by increasing glutathione levels, especially in the brain and metabolic organs.
GCBE supplementation significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a meta-analysis of RCTs.
Oral GCBE showed radioprotective effects in mice, reducing DNA damage from gamma irradiation.
A single 100 mg dose of whole coffee fruit extract increased plasma BDNF by 143% in healthy humans.
GCBE supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in a meta-analysis of RCTs.
A 12-week trial with GCB70® (70% chlorogenic acid) reduced body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and leptin in overweight individuals.
GCBE improved lipid profiles, glycemic control, and blood pressure in a meta-analysis of 15 RCTs.
GCBE significantly lowered SBP and DBP in a dose-response meta-analysis, with no effect on heart rate.
