Green Tea Extract for Weight Loss: What the Research Says
Disclosure: this site contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition.
Green tea extract, rich in catechins like EGCG and caffeine, has been tested in many studies. Overall it produced only a small weight loss in adults, and the effect is not large enough to matter much on its own. Concentrated extracts have also been linked to rare cases of liver injury.
What studies found
Reviews of clinical trials found that green tea preparations led to a small loss of weight in overweight adults, often too small to be clinically meaningful, and results varied between studies. Part of the effect seems to come from the caffeine.
Green tea drink vs extract
| Brewed green tea | Green tea extract | |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Drink | Concentrated powder or capsule |
| Safety | Safe for most adults in normal amounts | Rare liver injury reported, more often on an empty stomach |
| Caffeine | About 30 to 50 mg per cup | Varies by product |
Who should be careful
- People with liver disease or who drink heavily
- People sensitive to caffeine or with heart rhythm problems
- Anyone taking medication, since green tea can interact with some drugs
Take extracts with food and stop if you notice dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, or belly pain, and see a doctor.
Products with green tea extract
Many weight-management powders include it, such as LeafTide. When a label does not list the dose, you cannot tell how much you are getting.
See LeafTideFrequently asked questions
Does green tea extract help you lose weight?
Studies show a small effect at best, often not clinically meaningful on its own.
Is green tea extract safe?
Brewed green tea is safe for most adults. Concentrated extracts have been linked to rare cases of liver injury.
Does green tea extract have caffeine?
Most extracts contain some caffeine, but the amount varies by product.
When should I take green tea extract?
With food, and earlier in the day if it contains caffeine.