When it comes to weight-loss support and faster fat loss, few products compare to the effectiveness of thermogenic fat burners.
While these supplements certainly don’t offer a ‘magic pill’ solution to your body transformation aspirations, they certainly add impetus to any holistic weight loss approach that includes a calorie-controlled diet and exercise plan.
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Scientific support
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial published in 2016 in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition supports these claims.
Based on the findings, the thermogenic fat loss supplement used in the trial “led to significant elevations in RMR (resting metabolic rate) as compared to baseline.”
These results led the researchers to conclude that, when taken on a daily basis, the thermogenic fat loss supplement “may increase an individual’s overall energy expenditure, however; future studies should investigate if this leads to a reduction in fat mass loss over time.”
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The stimulant factor
Thermogenic weight loss products get their name from the effect they have on the body – they literally turn up the heat as your body burns more energy.
As such, supplements that elevate your metabolism are considered thermogenic in nature.
Advantages of stimulant-based fat burners:
- Boosts your metabolism
- Accelerates weight loss and fat loss
- Increases energy
- Decreases appetite
- Increases alertness
It is usually a combination of natural substances called stimulants that raise your metabolism by acting on the nervous system that increases activity levels and body temperature to burn more calories, even when we are not active.
These active ingredients increase your daily energy expenditure, especially when you train for extended periods or at higher intensities. And if your diet is on point, most of that energy should come from stored body fat.
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Amplify the fat-loss effects
Supplement manufacturers also often include synergistic ingredients in their thermogenic fat loss formulations to amplify the effects of the stimulants.
For example, Biogen Thermo Burn contains L-theanine and caffeine. This combination seems to work well together to “reduce triglyceride and non-esterified fatty acid levels and assist in lowering cellular fat accumulation”, according to a study that looked at the anti-obesity effects of three major components of green tea, namely catechins, caffeine and theanine.
You can also find a trace mineral called chromium in thermogenic formulations like Biogen RAGE Thermo Extreme and Biogen Thermocut Slim Sticks. It is essential for maintaining optimal insulin metabolism and, as such, it is important for energy regulation, controlling fat storage and muscle growth. By enhancing insulin’s effect, your body can better regulate blood sugar levels, which has a positive effect on weight loss.
Similarly, products like Biogen Thermocut Slim Sticks that contain N-acetyl-L-carnitine support fat loss by transporting circulating fatty acids into the energy-producing structures in muscle cells called mitochondria, where they are burnt for energy. L-Carnitine may also help to suppress appetite and stabilise blood sugar levels to reduce cravings.
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Appetite-suppressing effects
And thermogenic weight loss products can reduce your appetite to further support weight-loss. The subsequent reduction in your calorie intake, coupled with higher activity levels, help to boost the rate at which you lose weight and fat.
For example, a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2017 suggests that yerba mate, another common stimulant contained in thermogenic products like Biogen RAGE Thermo Extreme and Biogen Thermocut Slim Sticks, is effective in aiding weight loss and fat metabolism through various mechanisms, including its effect as an appetite suppressant, when combined with exercise prescription at the correct training intensities compared with exercise alone.
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How to use thermogenic products
When including thermogenic weight loss products in your supplement plan, it is important to follow the dosing instructions provided on the package labelling and never exceed the product’s recommended daily dosage.
Common guidelines suggest taking a stimulant-based fat-loss supplement at the following times:
- First thing in the morning to provide energy throughout the day.
- Before exercise to amplify the fat-burning effect, ideally before midday.
- Before periods when cravings usually strike, like mid-afternoon. However, anyone who is sensitive to stimulants should avoid taking thermogenic products after midday.
In general, guidelines recommend limiting your thermogenic weight loss products use to 6-8 week cycles. This approach gives your nervous and hormone (endocrine) systems time to reset while restoring your sensitivity to stimulants.
However, recommendations often vary, so read those labels carefully! For example, Biogen recommends taking Thermo Burn for five consecutive days, then taking a two-day break before continuing again.
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Using thermogenics safely
As thermogenic fat burners typically contain stimulants, it is important to follow the same sensible usage guidelines as you would with coffee or other natural stimulants.
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions, pregnant or breast feeding women and people under the age of 18 should avoid them. And always consult your doctor before starting any supplement regimen that includes thermogenic weight loss products, especially if you take chronic medication.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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