What is green coffee, the drink that helped cricketer Sarfaraz Khan lose 17 kilos in 2 months?

Cricketer Sarfaraz Khan’s 17-kg drop in two months shocked many fans. His father and coach, Naushad Khan, revealed that the change came from a strict diet built around lean protein, vegetables, and two simple drinks many people already know, green tea and green coffee.

Green coffee stood out because it is not part of the usual athlete's diet, and it raised one big question: what makes this drink special?

Here’s everything we need to know about what green coffee is, how it works in the body, and what science says about its safety.

What makes green coffee different from regular coffee?

Green coffee is made from unroasted coffee beans. Because the beans are raw, they retain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, a group of plant compounds linked with antioxidant and metabolic effects.

Roasting destroys most of these acids, so the chemical profile ends up very different from the coffee most people drink every morning.

The flavour is lighter, almost herbal. Many people describe it as closer to a mild tea than a regular brew. This gentler profile is why it fits well into structured weight-loss diets like Sarfaraz Khan’s.

How does green coffee support weight loss?

Green coffee gained attention after several studies found that chlorogenic acids help improve fat metabolism and lower blood sugar.

Weight reduction: A meta-analysis published in the NIH reported that people taking green coffee extract lost around 2.5 kg more than those on placebo.

Better fat-to-lean mass ratio: A study in the NIH found that green coffee extract improved body composition in overweight adults when paired with a controlled diet.

Blood sugar regulation: Chlorogenic acids appear to reduce glucose absorption in the gut, which may help prevent insulin spikes that trigger fat storage.

Blood pressure support: Some reports show mild drops in systolic and diastolic pressure in people who consume green coffee regularly.

These effects are not rapid on their own. Athletes like Sarfaraz pair green coffee with high-intensity training, lean protein, and strict carbohydrate control, which strengthens the drink’s benefits.

What happens inside the body when you drink green coffee?

Green coffee works through a few key mechanisms:

Chlorogenic acids slow carbohydrate breakdown, so the body releases glucose more steadily. This may help curb cravings and late-day hunger spikes.

Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress, which plays a role in inflammation, premature ageing, and metabolic disorders.

Mild caffeine boosts alertness and energy, which supports workouts and helps maintain calorie burn.

One interesting observation from ongoing research is how green coffee may influence gut-level enzymes that regulate fat use. Studies in lab models show that chlorogenic acids block enzymes responsible for fat buildup in liver cells, giving scientists a promising direction for future human trials.

Things to keep in mind before adding green coffee to your routine

Green coffee looks simple, but a few factors matter:

• Caffeine is still present, although usually at a lower level than roasted coffee. People sensitive to caffeine may still experience jitters, sleep issues, or anxiety.
• Dosage varies widely between brands. Some products contain strong extracts rather than mild brewed beans.
• People with hypertension, thyroid disorders, gastric issues, or those taking stimulants should speak to a clinician first.
• Bones may be affected by high doses. Animal studies show that daily green coffee extract can reduce calcium levels in bone tissue.
• It works best with diet and exercise, not as a shortcut. Even studies that show positive changes used green coffee alongside calorie-controlled diets.

Who should avoid green coffee?

While most healthy adults can drink it safely in moderation, the following groups should be cautious:

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
2. People with severe anxiety disorders
3. Those on blood pressure, antiplatelet, or stimulant medications
4. Individuals with poor sleep quality
5. People with existing bone-density concerns

For everyone else, one cup a day is usually tolerated well, but the right amount depends on the product and personal caffeine sensitivity.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information for educational purposes. It should not be used as medical advice or as a substitute for professional consultation. Always speak to a qualified healthcare provider before adding any supplement, including green coffee, to your routine.