If you've ever considered taking a fat burner to lose weight, you're not alone. Fat burners, also known as thermogenics, are a major part of the nutritional supplement industry, which is said by the Food and Drug Administration to make billions of dollars each year. There are many different brands of fat burners on the market, but most consist of a blend of caffeine, green tea extract and l-carnitine. While fat burners are customer-friendly and are often effective, their effects can drastically change the way you feel throughout the day.
Step 1
Go to a doctor and get yourself checked out. Fat burners contain a very high level of caffeine---regular servings of both Hydroxycut Hardcore X and Xenadrine ULTRA contain 200 mg of caffeine, the equivalent of 2 cups of coffee---and if you have high blood pressure or are at risk of heart disease, or even if you have a family history of these ailments, taking fat burners can be very dangerous. Ask your doctor for his recommendation and for any potential risks that taking fat burners can pose.
Step 2
Read the directions on the label of your fat burner packaging. Limit your initial dosage to one pill per serving. For example, if the recommended dosage is three pills three times a day, start by taking one pill three times a day. This will help you to get used to the caffeine boost provided by the fat burner.
Step 3
Increase your water intake. Since thermogenics dehydrate you, most manufacturers recommend drinking at least 80 oz. of water per day.
Step 4
Work your way up to the recommended dosage once you've gotten used to taking fat burners daily. You should be able to increase your fat burner intake after three days of a smaller dosage, but don't rush if you aren't ready. Be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage listed on the label.
Step 5
Take a break for a few weeks after four to six consecutive weeks of taking thermogenics. This break will prevent the effects of the fat burner from diminishing. When you are ready to go back onto your fat burner, start with a small dosage and work your way up to avoid a massive increase in your caffeine intake.
Tips and Warnings
- Fat burners work, but they only work if you're consistent with your diet and exercise. It's also important to take the fat burners as directed and that you not skip any dosages.
- If you feel like the fat burner is having an adverse effect, discontinue use immediately, especially if you feel like your heart is racing or if you are short of breath while exercising. Don't take fat burners within five hours of bedtime, as the high caffeine content will prevent you from sleeping. Avoid studies done in supplement magazines for promotional purposes, as these may be misleading and not entirely legitimate.
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