If you’ve ever tried to go on a weight loss journey, the odds are that you’ve heard of thermogenics. These supplements have been gaining popularity in the fitness industry for their potential to boost metabolism, increase energy levels, and aid in weight loss. But what exactly are Thermogenics exactly, and can they really help you achieve your fitness goals? Or are they just another fitness industry fad that will fade like the vibrating belt?
According to a study by Grand View Research, the global market for weight loss supplements, including thermogenics, was valued at USD 24.7 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028.
This shows that more and more people are turning to supplements to support their weight loss and fitness goals. But before you jump onto the trend, read this post as we dive into the world of thermogenics and explore their potential benefits and drawbacks.
What are Thermogenics, and Do They Work?
Thermogenics are supplements that contain natural or synthetic ingredients that increase metabolism and heat production in the body. So, yes, thermogenics work, and they do this by raising your metabolism to burn more calories.
Most thermogenics contain a mixture of ingredients like caffeine, green tea extract, yohimbine, and capsaicin. These ingredients work together to stimulate the central nervous system, increase heart rate, and promote fat oxidation.
You can think of the effects of thermogenics as similar to what happens when you exercise. Your heart rate increases, your central nervous system is triggered, and as a result, your body burns more calories to perform whatever work you need it to do.
How Can Thermogenics Help a Fitness Program?
If you’re trying to lose weight, thermogenics can bolster your efforts and make your journey easier. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that thermogenics can aid in weight loss when combined with a calorie-restricted diet and exercise program.
The key is to stick to your fitness program as religiously as possible and then use thermogenics for an extra boost, nudging your efforts farther along. These supplements will, however, never be a replacement for exercise.
We should also mention that thermogenics will do nothing for you if you plan to gain muscle. They don’t affect muscle damage or repair in any way and thus will not help you build new muscle tissue. The supplements are only really useful in the context of weight loss, and their effectiveness is minimal compared to exercise.
3 Things to Keep in Mind When Using Thermogenics
1. They Have Side Effects
If you’re like most people, you’re probably asking yourself, “If thermogenics are so great, why don’t we hear more about it?” Because the odds are that if you’ve ever hired a personal trainer, they probably didn’t recommend these supplements to you.
Well, part of the reason is that thermogenics are largely unregulated. That means that they are not properly tested before marketing, and they might contain dangerous doses of certain ingredients.
Bottom line, taking thermogenics comes with some serious risks and side effects. Here are some of them
- Inflammation
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Slight increase in blood pressure
- Constipation
In more severe cases, thermogenics can cause heart palpitations, anxiety, and restlessness. These more severe side effects are especially common with supplements that have a high amount of caffeine
2. Nothing Beats an Exercise and Diet Program
There’s only so much thermogenics can do for you, and you’ll never find someone who lost 50 pounds by taking these supplements alone.
To burn any significant amount of calories, you need sustained elevated heart rate levels coupled with muscle activation and increased oxygen consumption. Thermogenics will never be able to match that.
The point is that you still have to commit to an effective exercise and diet program to see any real and long-lasting results.
3. Not All Thermogenics are Made The Same
As mentioned earlier, thermogenic supplements are largely unregulated, which means that you really don’t know what’s in the bottle. It’s certainly not news that many supplement manufacturers employ deceptive marketing tactics and false advertising.
What the bottle says might be a far cry from what’s actually inside. Keep this in mind when shopping for thermogenics. It might also be a good idea to stick with one supplement that you’ve used and tolerated well in the past.
The Bottom Line
Thermogenics have the potential to aid in weight loss and support your fitness program when used as part of a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to do your research and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine, as they may have potential side effects or interactions with medications.
As with any supplement, it’s best to use thermogenics in moderation and in combination with a balanced diet and regular exercise to see the best results.
Remember, there are plenty of natural ways to lose weight. Read more in our guides to getting lean and the paleo vs keto diet debate.
