Green tea extract is developed from the leaves of camellia sinensis, the plant from which black, green, and oolong teas are made. Green tea extract has long been associated with several health benefits, such as treating headaches, lowering cancer rates, improving overall health, and increasing life expectancy. A lot of these claims are maintained by initial scientific research but the scientific population wants to make it clear that continued research is needed.

Green tea extract is a common ingredient in many weight loss supplements known as “fat burners” because green tea extract is supposed to increase thermogenesis and aid in the metabolism of fat; however, it does not increase your heart rate so you shouldn’t get the jitters from using this product.

How It Works

The active ingredient in green tea extract is Epigallocatechin Gallate, usually abbreviated as EGCG. It is a type of antioxidant called a catechin. A small study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that EGCG may increase metabolic rate, meaning it helps you burn more calories.

Green tea may also have other health benefits. Because of its antioxidant properties, green tea extract may assist in protecting cellular membranes against the damaging effects of too many free radicals, and thereby warding off certain types of cancers. It is supposedly up to 100 times stronger than that of vitamins E or C.

When taken as a dietary supplement, the recommended dose is 1 or 2 capsules/day at meals. Of course it depends on where you purchase this product, but the price of a 360-capsule bottle is approximately $30.00 at most retailers.

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