Thermogenic supplements have gained popularity in the weight loss industry as a way to boost metabolism and burn fat, both of which are important factors for effective weight loss. These supplements contain natural ingredients that are said to have a thermogenic effect that raises the body’s core temperature, causing it to burn more calories.
However, the effectiveness of thermogenic supplements in promoting weight loss has been a subject of debate among health professionals and consumers. This article aims to provide an objective analysis of thermogenic supplements and their potential benefits and risks.
We will explore how these supplements work, the common ingredients found in them, and the scientific evidence behind their fat-burning claims. Additionally, we will provide guidance on how to use thermogenic supplements safely and effectively, and discuss the potential side effects and complications associated with their use.
By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of whether fat burning supplements are an effective weight loss tool or just another marketing gimmick.
How Do Thermogenics Work?
The mechanism of action of thermogenic supplements, involves increasing metabolism and fat burning through the stimulation of hormones and enzymes. These often contain natural ingredients that can help the body burn more calories. So what are thermogenic compounds and how do they work?
Caffeine for Fat Burning
Caffeine, for example, increases the levels of adrenaline, which stimulates fat cells to release fatty acids into the bloodstream for energy. This includes sources like:
- Coffee Beans
- Black and Green Teas
- Chocolate
Elevate Fitness Slimming Powder
Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)
EGCG is a natural compound found in plants. Along with incredible antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, heart and brain health properties, EGCG may encourage weight loss, especially when used in conjunction with caffeine. EGCG occurs in:
- Green, white, oolong and, black Teas
- Fruits, like strawberries, kiwis, cranberries
- Nuts, like pecans and pistachios
Capscaicin
Capsaicin reduces appetite and stimulates the release of adrenaline, causing the body to burn more calories and fat. Capscaicin is a natural plant compound that increases energy expenditure and oxidises fat, while having little to no calorific value itself. It is the compound that makes chili peppers hot. Capsaicin supplements can boost metabolism by about 50 calories per day, and supplementing with 6 mg of capsaicin daily has been linked to reductions in belly fat over a three-month period.
TC1 Advanced Topical Sweat Workout Enhancer with Capsaicin
TC1 Gel Topical Pre-Workout was specifically designed to enhance your workouts by accelerating your warm-up and recovery time
Sweat More, Burn More Calories, Increase Gym Motivation, Sooth Tight Muscles, Enhance Your Warm-ups, Accelerate Your Recovery, and of course Smash Your Workouts! Give us a try today!
Garcinia Cambogia/ Hydroxycitric Acid
The garcinia cambogia fruit grows in South east Asia and contains Hydrocycitric Acid (HCA), a thermogenic compound that is rumored to aid weight loss by blocking the activity of the enzyme involved in the formation of body fat.
But any real link to weight loss is yet to be established, with clinical trials conflicting in their evidence. The FDA has also recalled HCA products fearing links to jaundice and liver failure. We do not recommend taking this supplement for weight loss.
Yohimbine
Yohimbine is a herbal supplement used often in West African Herbal Medicine. It works by blocking alpha-2 adrenal hormone receptors and can prohibit fat storage.
Bitter Orange – Synephrine
Bitter orange contains synephrine, a natural stimulant thought to encourage weight loss. This works by stimulating beta-adrenoreceptors, increasing metabolism, and burning fat. However, the efficacy and safety of synephrine haven’t yet been proven, and it is worth noting that this supplement has been banned as a doping agent by many worldwide sporting committees.
Potential Benefits and Risks
The potential benefits and risks of using thermogenic supplements should be carefully considered before deciding to incorporate them into a weight loss plan.
On the one hand, thermogenic supplements containing caffeine, green tea, capsaicin, garcinia cambogia, yohimbine, and bitter orange may help to increase metabolism and fat burning, reduce appetite, and lead to weight loss. Studies have shown that blended supplements can provide an extra metabolism boost, especially when combined with exercise.
For instance, caffeine can increase adrenaline levels, stimulate fat cells to release fatty acids into the bloodstream for energy and help burn an additional 0.1 calories per milligram consumed in the following 24 hours. Capsaicin supplements can boost metabolism by about 50 calories per day, and supplementing with 6 mg of capsaicin daily has been linked to reductions in belly fat over a three-month period.
On the other hand, thermogenic supplements can also cause unpleasant side effects such as nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, and a slight increase in blood pressure. Supplements containing high doses of caffeine (400 mg or more) may cause heart palpitations, anxiety, headache, restlessness, and dizziness.
Moreover, manufacturers’ claims that these supplements will help lose weight or burn more body fat are hotly debated, and research has not yet determined
The Bottom Line
While these ingredients have been shown to have small, positive effects on metabolism and fat burning, it’s unclear whether these effects are significant enough to help people lose weight or body fat. More research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these common ingredients in thermogenic supplements.
Additionally, it’s important to note that thermogenic supplements may cause unpleasant side effects, such as nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, and a slight increase in blood pressure. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before deciding whether thermogenic supplements are right for you.
It’s important to exercise caution when taking any supplement and always consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen. Additionally, it’s important to remember that thermogenic supplements should not be seen as a magic pill solution, and a healthy diet and exercise plan are still necessary to achieve lasting weight loss results.
Leave a Reply