Thermogenics are formulas that incite thermogenesis. Thermogenesis means to produce heat and is a normal by-product of metabolic processes. The production of heat can promote an increase in energy
(Busbridge, N et al. 1993). A thermogenic supplement helps to accelerate your metabolism to burn more calories and fat while you train.
Busbridge, N et al. 1993, ‘Thermogenic Effects of Cytokines: Methods and Mechanisms, Methods in Neurosciences, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1043947113700119
What is a fat metaboliser?
A fat metaboliser or fat burner is a supplement that supports the oxidisation of excess fat within your body. Fat-burning ingredients include caffeine, green tea extract, protein, yohimbine, and more
(Jewell, T. 2020).
Jewell, T. 2020, ‘What You Need to Know About Fat-Burning Supplements and Creams’, Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/do-fat-burners-work
What are the different types of fat burner supplements?
There is a range of different fat burner supplements that can help you achieve your body goals. These include thermogenic formulas that can be taken before training to create heat and burn more calories. Carnitine formulas support the transportation of fatty acids to the cell's mitochondria, where they are oxidised and turned into energy. There are green tea supplements and lean protein powders that are designed with weight loss in mind, as well as CLA supplements to support the reduction of body fat and improved immune function.
If you’re consuming fat burners with a balanced diet and exercise routine, and in accordance with the instructions on the nutritional panel, then you should not experience any side effects. However, if you’re taking excess caffeine on top of these supplements (which commonly use caffeine as a key ingredient), then you may experience side effects.
How do fat burner supplements work?
Fat burners are designed to elevate your blood pressure and increase your overall energy expenditure in order to promote weight loss. Fat burners can increase your metabolism, reduce the amount of fat your body absorbs, and suppress your appetite
(Taylor, M. 2021).
Taylor, M. 2021, ‘What Are Fat Burner Supplements? WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/what-are-fat-burner-supplements#:~:text=Fat%20burners%20work%20by%20elevating,supplements%20could%20lead%20to%20hypertension
What are the active ingredients in fat burner supplements?
The active ingredients in fat burner supplements are generally Caffeine, Green Tea Extract, protein powder, soluble fibre, Yohimbe, CLA, and more
(Jewell, T. 2020).
Jewell, T. 2020, ‘What You Need to Know About Fat-Burning Supplements and Creams’, Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/do-fat-burners-work
What are the benefits of fat burner supplements?
If you’re trying to lose weight and struggling to reach your goals, fat burner supplements can add some extra fuel when consumed in accordance with a balanced diet and training regime. Fat burners can support the breakdown of fat and may help you burn any excess fat from your body.
Who is most likely to use fat burner supplements?
If you’re overweight or are trying to lose weight and are unable to do so through dieting and exercising alone, a fat burner supplement can provide additional support and may help you step closer towards your weight goals.
Who should avoid using fat burner supplements?
If you have any allergies to any of the active ingredients or are already very lean/ low on fat, then a fat burner supplement will not be effective for you. If you have any medical conditions, fat burners may not be right for you, so you should always consult your GP before taking them.
What are the risks of taking the fat burner supplement?
If you’re consuming fat burners with a balanced diet and exercise routine, and in accordance with the instructions on the nutritional panel, then you should not experience any side effects. However, if you’re taking excess caffeine on top of these supplements (which commonly use caffeine as a key ingredient), then you may experience side effects.
Are fat burners bad for your liver?
If you’re consuming fat burners with a balanced diet and exercise routine, and in accordance with the instructions on the nutritional panel, then you should not experience any issues with your liver. However, if you’re consuming too many different fat burners, this can lead to liver problems, including potential acute liver failure
(Jewell, T. 2020).
Jewell, T. 2020, ‘What You Need to Know About Fat-Burning Supplements and Creams’, Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/do-fat-burners-work
Can fat burners affect your period?
There are a number of factors that may affect a woman's menstrual cycle, from pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, other medical conditions and lifestyle choices. The female body requires a particular amount of vitamins, minerals, and fats to maintain regular menstruation. While fat burner supplements shouldn’t affect your period if you’re consuming a nutritional diet, if you’re using them in place of a balanced diet, then you may find yourself lacking micronutrients that are essential for healthy menstruation
(Robertson, I. 2022).
Robertson, I. 2022, ‘Can Fat Burners Affect Your Period? (According to Science), Total Shape, https://totalshape.com/supplements/can-fat-burners-affect-your-period/
Can fat burners cause bloating?
If you’re consuming fat burners with a balanced diet and exercise routine and in accordance with the instructions on the nutritional panel, then you should not experience any bloating. If you’re consuming too much protein, then you may experience bloating due to the protein, sugar and fibre content
(Moore, S. 2020).
Moore, S. 2020, ‘What is protein and why is it important?’ AZO Life Sciences, https://www.azolifesciences.com/article/Protein-and-Bloating.aspx#:~:text=While%20consuming%20enough%20protein%20is,added%20fiber%2C%20which%20induces%20bloating
Can fat burners cause acne?
Fat burners shouldn’t cause any acne, particularly if they’re consumed in accordance with the nutritional label on the back of the product. If you are consuming a protein-based fat burner that is high in lactose, then it is possible for symptoms of acne to appear, but if that is the case, you may want to check with a GP, as you may have an intolerance or allergy to dairy or lactose products.