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How Do I Choose the Best Green Tea Capsules?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Choosing the best green tea capsules for your situation will depend highly on your reasons for taking them. Green tea has been associated with increased energy, faster metabolism, and improved immune function. To choose the right option, pick one that is formulated to work for your needs. Start by checking in local pharmacies or health food stores and discussing your reasons for taking green tea capsules with your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you determine which brands and formulations will work best for you.

Some capsules are made from green tea leaves or extract and contain no additional ingredients. These are good for boosting immunity because green tea naturally contains large amounts of antioxidants. Whole food options are often best, and should be made without fillers and additives. There are generally no side effects to this type of supplement when taken as directed. This is a good option for those who just want a slight boost in immune function or metabolism but have no pressing issues which may require a more aggressive therapy.

Green tea.
Green tea.

If you want to lose weight and boost energy, both results green tea capsules are known for, then you may choose options with additional vitamins and other ingredients. Weight loss versions may contain vitamins like B12 and other metabolism-boosting options. Be sure to check ingredients in weight management formulations since they may also contain powerful stimulants like ephedra. Remember that just because something is listed as “natural” doesn’t mean that it is safe.

It may be wise for people who take green tea supplements to cut down or avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine.
It may be wise for people who take green tea supplements to cut down or avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine.

Green tea capsules may also come with caffeine, vitamins, and other energy boosting ingredients. The tea itself has been shown to increase energy in some people, so having these additions is not always necessary. If you suffer from more severe fatigue, you may benefit from an energy formula. Be sure to discuss any ingredients with your doctor and avoid taking high dosages of caffeine and other mild stimulants.

People who suffer from fatigue may benefit from an energy-boosting green tea formula.
People who suffer from fatigue may benefit from an energy-boosting green tea formula.

If you have any health problems or are taking other supplements or medications, it is important to speak with a doctor before beginning green tea capsules. Some ingredients in certain formulas may be harmful for your health if you have certain conditions, or may interact with your current medications. Most supplements containing only green tea are safe with most drugs and are compatible with most health issues. Be sure to take supplements only as recommended unless otherwise directed by a physician.

Discussion Comments

ysmina

@fify-- Why don't you take ECGC capsules? This is the main beneficial ingredient in green tea. ECGC capsules are more potent than green tea capsules and more effective in my opinion.

Also, green tea capsules have caffeine and ECGC capsules don't. Some people don't want the caffeine and some do, so you can pick your supplement based on what you prefer.

Either way, green tea capsules are much better than drinking green tea because I can never drink enough to get the maximum benefits.

ZipLine

@fify-- If you want a supplement with only green tea, look at green tea capsules and not weight loss supplements. The natural and organic brands have capsules that are made of green tea and nothing else.

fify

I want to try green tea capsules for weight loss. I've found several green tea weight loss supplements at the store and online. But I've noticed that none of them are just green tea. They have other things as well, other natural herbs.

Are these supplements effective and safe to take? Is there a green tea weight loss supplement that doesn't have additional ingredients?

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    • Green tea.
      By: NataliTerr
      Green tea.
    • It may be wise for people who take green tea supplements to cut down or avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine.
      By: volff
      It may be wise for people who take green tea supplements to cut down or avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine.
    • People who suffer from fatigue may benefit from an energy-boosting green tea formula.
      By: BlueSkyImages
      People who suffer from fatigue may benefit from an energy-boosting green tea formula.
    • A pharmacist can help you find the best green tea capsules based on your reason for taking them.
      By: Deklofenak
      A pharmacist can help you find the best green tea capsules based on your reason for taking them.
    • You should discuss your reasons for taking green tea capsules with your doctor.
      By: JackF
      You should discuss your reasons for taking green tea capsules with your doctor.
    • Caffeine from green tea can cause stomach upset in some people.
      By: ryanking999
      Caffeine from green tea can cause stomach upset in some people.