Thermogenics & Weight Loss

Thermogenics come in many forms including supplements, drinks and foods. Supplement formulas contain a variety of ingredients including amino acids, caffeine and ephedra and work to increase metabolism by raising body temperature. In addition, thermogenic foods and drinks have the same metabolic effect and can help increase weight loss.

Foods

• Thermogenics by definition means the production of heat. Substances that have thermogenic properties are thought to increase metabolism by raising the core temperature of the body. Foods that promote weight loss using thermogenics include cayenne pepper, hot peppers, Tabasco sauce, garlic and salsa. According to an Oxford University Study, these foods can increase your metabolism by up to 20 percent. When you ingest these foods, there is a temporary increase in metabolism and increased fat burn. Use these foods and sauces in cooking or as a taste additive.

Drinks

• A study performed by the Department of Health and Exercise Science found that thermogenic drinks may help to promote weight loss because they increase metabolic rate. Thermogenic drinks are available in health food stores and over the counter. In addition, ice water, green tea and apple cider vinegar (1 to 2 tsp.) in water have some effect on metabolism, according to carbohydrate-guide.com. Drink a thermogenic drink early in the morning, before eating or before working out to temporarily increase metabolism to aid in weight loss.

Supplements

• According to the European Journal of Applied Physiology, some of the ingredients used in thermogenic supplements, including caffeine and ephedrine, are helpful in increasing exercise performance. Most supplements recommend at least three doses daily to stimulate metabolism. Because thermogenic supplements usually contain stimulants such as aspirin, caffeine and ephedra, they are best taken early in the day (before 5 p.m.) to avoid sleep disruption.