New Delhi: Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan has made headlines not just for his performance on the field, but for a remarkable physical transformation, shedding an impressive 17 kilograms in just over two months. Central to his rigorous regimen, alongside a strict diet and intense training, was the inclusion of green coffee, a beverage gaining traction for its potential role in weight management.

Sarfaraz's father, Naushad Khan, in an interview with Hindustan Times, divulged the disciplined approach behind his son's dramatic weight loss. "We have controlled our diet a lot. We have stopped eating roti, rice, sugar, maida (refined flour), and bakery items," Naushad told the publication.

He further elaborated on the family's dietary shift, explaining, "We haven't eaten roti or rice at home for 1 to 1.5 months. We eat broccoli, carrots, cucumber, salad, and green vegetable salad. Along with that, we eat grilled fish, grilled chicken, boiled chicken, boiled egg, etc. We are also having green tea and green coffee. We also eat avocados. There are sprouts also." Naushad even confirmed that Sarfaraz gave up his beloved biryani as part of this commitment.

Understanding green coffee's role

Green coffee refers to unroasted coffee beans, which are naturally greenish in colour. Unlike their roasted counterparts, these beans retain a significantly higher concentration of chlorogenic acid (CGA). This compound is believed to be the primary driver of green coffee's purported health advantages.

The key properties and potential benefits attributed to green coffee, primarily due to its high CGA content, include:

High Chlorogenic Acid Content: This is the defining property of green coffee, as roasting significantly reduces CGA levels.

Potential for Modest Weight Reduction: Studies suggest it can contribute to a decrease in body weight, BMI, fat mass, and body fat percentage.

Metabolic Support: It may help regulate metabolism and improve the lean mass-to-fat mass ratio.

Cardiovascular Health Benefits: Research indicates potential in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

Blood Sugar Regulation: It may aid in reducing fasting glucose levels.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties: CGA acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to combat free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.

However, it's important to note that many existing studies are relatively small or of moderate quality, and more high-quality research is needed to fully substantiate all health claims.

A comprehensive approach to fitness

While green coffee was a key addition, Sarfaraz's transformation is a testament to a holistic approach. The dramatic dietary changes, combined with a focused exercise regimen, underscore the importance of consistent effort and a well-rounded plan.

Experts reiterate that while green coffee shows promise, it is not a standalone solution. Its benefits are best realised when integrated into a balanced diet and an active lifestyle.