From Green Coffee to Mediterranean Diet: Where to Find Chlorogenic Acid and Its Potential Benefits
What Is Chlorogenic Acid?
Chlorogenic acid (also known chemically as 3-caffeoylquinic acid) is a polyphenol found in many plants, particularly in green coffee, and appears to play an important biological role in a chain of oxidation-reduction processes.
In addition to green coffee, mate, a South American drink, is an excellent source.
This polyphenol is also found in various vegetables popular in the Mediterranean diet, including tomatoes, aubergines, potatoes, peaches, pears, plums, and apples.
Chlorogenic Acid Is Used for What?
Chlorogenic acid has a number of positive characteristics that make it a common ingredient in supplements.
Research suggests that it can:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce post-prandial glycemia by modulating the release of glucose into the bloodstream
- Aid in weight loss and metabolic syndrome treatment
- Exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects
Currently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not approved any claims for goods containing chlorogenic acid.
In particular, proposals for indications in which chlorogenic acid would be able to keep blood glucose levels at physiological levels and help maintain an ideal weight have been rejected due to a lack of sufficient scientific evidence.
Warnings and Possible Contraindications
According to the research completed so far, chlorogenic acid appears to be well tolerated.
In terms of pharmacological interactions, this chemical has the potential to increase the effects of hypoglycemic medications while decreasing zinc absorption.
