Are Thermogenic Fat Burner Supplements Safe?

Thermogenic fat burners can increase your resting metabolic rate (RMR). Individual substances like caffeine and green tea are safe for most people.

As a consumer, you may be skeptical of quick weight loss solutions. However, if you’re struggling to lose weight, the allure of thermogenic fat burner supplements can be hard to resist. You’re probably wondering if they work and if they’re safe.

The word "thermogenic" refers to the body’s ability to produce heat. It is closely linked to metabolism and maintaining body temperature. Your metabolic rate is mainly determined by genetics, but certain thermogenic ingredients can slightly increase it.

Thermogenesis occurs in response to two main factors: colder temperatures (thermoregulatory thermogenesis) and digestion (diet-induced thermogenesis).

Digesting food requires energy, and diet-induced thermogenesis is the body’s way of restoring its energy balance by converting energy to heat.

What are thermogenic fat burner supplements?

Thermogenic fat burner supplements increase your resting metabolic rate (RMR) and potentially promote fat loss. The effectiveness depends on the active ingredient or combination of ingredients in the supplement.

Some common thermogenic substances are caffeine, green tea, yohimbine, carnitine, yerba mate, and capsaicin.

Caffeine stimulates thermogenic activity and can promote physical activity and calorie burning. Green tea aids fat oxidation and energy expenditure. Yohimbine’s health benefits are mostly unproven. Carnitine converts fat into energy. Yerba mate and capsaicin also contribute to weight loss and metabolic health.

Thermogenic supplement side effects

Some ingredients in thermogenic fat burners can be harmful in large doses. Caffeine can negatively impact blood pressure and heart rate, and excessive caffeine intake can lead to various side effects. Green tea extract in high amounts can be toxic to the liver. Yohimbine, when taken in excessive quantities, can cause heart failure and other adverse effects. Large amounts of yerba mate can increase the risk of certain cancers.

Do thermogenic supplements work?

While specific thermogenic ingredients have been shown to aid weight loss, there is limited scientific research on the overall effectiveness of thermogenic supplements. Regular use may increase daily energy expenditure and contribute to weight loss.