Green tea is a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements, due to its metabolic stimulator and diuretic properties. It is the least processed form of tea and is believed to have several health benefits such as promotion of a healthy heart, protection against cancer, and boosting metabolism. Since green tea is the result of minimal amount of processing, it is able to preserve its vital matter called catechin polyphenols. These substances are important because they work along with other chemicals in the body, so as to raise the level of fat oxidation and thermogenesis (body's process of heat production), whereby the body burns fat. Green tea contains caffeine, which is known to be a mild appetite suppressant, however, the caffeine content is half the amount found in coffee, thus it does not raise the heart rate in users. This ancient beverage called green tea can be used in the form of green tea diet pills as well. All the green tea benefits can be obtained by consumption of the beverage; some people prefer to swallow green tea diet capsules, instead of drinking of tea daily. Green Tea Diet Supplements As far as green tea diet tablets are concerned, they are prepared from the same green tea leaves (in the concentrated form), that are used to prepare the beverage. There are several types of green tea diet pills available in the market today. Some pills consist of 100% green tea extract, with super-concentrated green tea, while others contain weight-loss supplements like hoodia or chromium. It is believed that these pills are more effective, when used in combination with these strong appetite suppressants. Selection and Dosage Catechin polyphenols is the main substance which gives green tea its weight loss properties. Consumption of 100 milligrams of catechins, two times a day, is tantamount to drinking two cups of green tea. It is still uncertain whether these pills are a good substitute for the tea. People taking pills should follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packet, as the strengths of the extract vary. Anything between 300-400 mg is the typical dose. For people planning to obtain the benefits from tea consumption, 3-4 cups a day is the standard amount. Side Effects Caffeine, a component of green tea, has several side effects such as restlessness, heart palpitations, irritability, and insomnia. Constipation or diarrhea occur when green tea is consumed in excess amounts. However, the relieving factor about this is that these side effects occur, only if one consumes extremely high quantities of green tea. Moreover, the side effects won't be as severe, as when caffeine was being taken. Thus, it is essential to consult the doctor before taking any diet pills. Moreover, one should increase the water intake while on diet pills, as they have diuretic properties. Urination will increase, however, this way the body will be able to flush out the toxins and lose water weight. One should take these diet pills with meals, as taking them before bedtime can cause restlessness. Pregnant and nursing women should completely avoid this supplement. Moreover, people with kidney, stomach, and liver problems should also stay away from these diet pills. So also, for people taking antidepressants, painkillers, and antacids. Green tea pills can definitely help burn fat; however, they are not magic pills and cannot be considered as an instant remedy. Along with these pills, people have to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Besides fat-burning qualities, these pills also slow the aging process, fight bacteria and viruses, help stabilize diabetes, and prevent dental cavities. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.