If you were developing your own thermogenic super weight loss formula, you might consider the many different ingredients that positively impact thermogenesis. Thermogenic refers to generating heat in the body. For example, red peppers contain capsaicin, which can raise internal body temperature, making you sweat. Increased thermogenesis coincides with increased metabolic rate and more fat burning. Important note: consult your physician before developing or trying any thermogenic formula.
Function
Thermogenic weight loss formulas increase fat burning by manipulating your body's internal temperature through several different pathways. Supporting ingredients in these formulas may also boost energy, stabilize detrimental hormones like cortisol and insulin and suppress hunger. Caffeine, one of the most popular natural thermogenics worldwide, triggers the release of more fatty acids through its stimulant properties, according to "Elements of a Stack" by Jim Stoppani, PhD. However, not all thermogenic supplements contain stimulants like caffeine, yohimbe, synephrine, theobromine and other similar substances.
Types
Non-stimulant thermogenics can boost fat burning through other pathways, without affecting the central nervous system or the adrenal glands, like caffeine does. Amino acids, for example, also play important roles in fat burning, without any stimulant effects. Also, some healthy fats may increase fatty acid oxidation and inhibit fat absorption, which means an increase in fat burning and a decrease in fat storage, says Matthew Kadey in "Five Fat Fighters." Other substances can act on the thyroid, a gland found in the neck that regulates the body's internal thermostat. By increasing thyroid output, you can elevate your metabolic rate for more fat loss.
Ingredients
Caffeine, green tea, theophylline and beta-phenylethylamine are stimulants you may find in a super thermogenic formula. Non-stimulant ingredients may include capsaicin from cayenne pepper and forskolin. Decaffeinated green tea extract provides the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) antioxidant compound, which increases thermogenesis and metabolic rate even without the caffeine content. Fucoxanthin from brown seaweed also boosts metabolic rate without any stimulant properties, according to Life Extension Magazine. For thyroid support, 7-keto DHEA, L-tyrosine and guggulsterones may trigger the production of more fat burning hormones.
Misconceptions
Not all thermogenic formulas contain stimulants like caffeine. In fact, there are many other natural substances that can elevate metabolic rate, increase thermogenesis and speed up fat burning. For example, even foods like greens and berries contain natural antioxidants that can help you burn fat, according to "The Abs Diet" by David Zinczenko. The amino acid carnitine is another great example--your body could not burn fat without it and it helps to support heart health. Carnitine transports fatty acids into the mitochondria of muscle cells for energy production, says Stoppani.
Warning
Thermogenic weight loss supplements are not for everyone. Individuals who have heart disease or are at risk of developing heart conditions should avoid stimulants. Even among healthy individuals, caffeine and other stimulants are not universally well-tolerated. For some, stimulants cause anxiety, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure and dehydration. You should always check labels thoroughly because some manufacturers list caffeine and other stimulants by alternative chemical names. Also, you should always check with your doctor before taking any thermogenic weight loss product.
References
- "Muscle & Fitness Presents 2010 Edition: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook;" Five Fat Fighters; Matthew Kadey; January 2010
- "Muscle & Fitness Presents 2010 Edition: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook;" Elements of a Stack; Jim Stoppani, PhD; January 2010
- Life Extension Magazine; Safely Burn Away Body Fat; Julius Goepp, MD; March 2008
- "The Abs Diet;" David Zinczenko; 2004
- "Homemade Supplement Secrets;" Jeff Anderson; 2008
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