The new ‘fever’ in the gyms (since a few years ago) is the thermogenic supplements. Those ones that promise to dry your fat, improve the muscles definition and keep the lean body mass. As it were a ‘magic pill’. But we all know that all of this sounds too good to be true.

First of all, the above mentioned benefits will only take effect if you have a balanced diet and do exercises on a regular basis. So, the power of these pills is no much more than providing you with that little push to speed up the process and results. But is it really worth it?

The answer is NOT! Why? Besides spending lots of money with those (after all, you are buying ‘magic pills’) the industrial thermogenics may bring many problems to your body such as:  tachycardia, insomnia, abrupt mood changes, dehydration, arrhythmia, aggressiveness, headaches, lack of concentration, nauseas and agitation. Many of these products contain forbidden and highly noxious compounds, like hormones to control the thyroid.

Well, it seems to be clear how serious this is, right? The best way is always to keep distance from these products and choose for natural and healthy options. And yes, it is possible to find ‘thermogenic foods’, which can provide the same benefits that the supplements promise. We cannot play with our health.

Today at ‘Eating well is Jiu-Jitsu’, we will better explain what are these thermogenic foods and list them for you. Keep in mind that the willpower and disposition to train must come from inside, from yourself.

The definition is as simple as that: Naturally thermogenic foods are those which increase your body’s temperature and inhibit the appetite. This effect converts fat in energy. So, these foods intake makes your body to spend more energy in order to digest themselves, speeding up your metabolism and consuming the fat to supply this increased metabolic need.

The thermogenesis influence the production and release of those hormones which eliminate the fat by using it as an energy source. Again, the practical effect of the thermogenics is to keep the metabolism in an accelerated pace, increasing the caloric consumption. They are effective when combined with a regular aerobic/cardio exercises practice.

There are no miracle or secrets to stay in shape. You must follow a balanced diet and do exercises. The thermogenics will only be a complement. And being natural and healthy, why not?  Keep reading to learn more about 7 thermogenic foods and their benefits.

Red Chili: This specific kind of pepper is high in Capsaicin, a substance which stimulates the body to break down the fat molecules located in the adipose tissue. It may increase the metabolic activity in up to 20%, when 3g per day is consumed. This pepper may be added to salads or as a spice in main dishes.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): Like the chili, this tea increases the body’s use of the fat as an energy source through a metabolic stimulation. 5 cups of tea on a daily basis during 3 months is recommended. But take care: People who suffer from insomnia should not drink this tea in the evening or afternoon.

Coffee: It contains caffeine, stimulant and naturally thermogenic. It helps you to be always alert. But do not drink it too much, otherwise you may suffer with stomachaches, insomnia and anxiety.  The ideal is to have no more than 3 cups per day.

Cinnamon: It increases the basal metabolism and is high in mineral calcium, important substance to lose weight. When it is sprinkled over fruits (about 1 teaspoon), it does help you to lose weight. Besides, makes your meal delicious!

Ginger: This root may increase your caloric expenditure in more than 10%. Ginger may be consumed in many ways: raw, in marinates with beef, chicken or fishes, and it also goes very well with tomato sauces, vegetable soups and even in tea, when combined with some herbs. The recommended amount is about two small slices.

Cocoa: It has stimulant and antioxidant properties, due to its loads of caffeine and polyphenol. These two substances when combined are beneficial to the heart, blood circulation and are also anti-allergic, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory.

Hibiscus Tea: This tea, like the other thermogenic ones, increases the corporal temperature during its digestion, speeding up the metabolism. For a positive effect, a litter per day is recommended. For a litter of water, use a tablespoon of this flower.

Did you like it? Not it is time to choose your favorite food, search for a professional guidance and add them to your diet.

This article has only an informative purpose and has no intention to replace a professional guidance. The use of vitamins and supplements can offer you great results, but before using any product, we strongly recommend you to visit a Nutritionist, Doctor or another specialist for an analysis and follow-up.

Note: Illustrative photos.

Sources (in Portuguese): Minha Vida e Corpo a Corpo Website