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When trying to slim down and tone up, your diet is just as important as exercising. And there's a process within the anatomy which helps a great deal when it comes to shedding weight.
"Thermogenesis is quite simply the process of heat production within the mitochondria (energy factory) of the body," naturopath Louise Westra explained to Your Fitness magazine. "The heat it produces torches energy (calories and fat). The more specific term of dietary-induced thermogenesis is also known as the thermic effect of food (TEF). This refers to the amount of energy used above our basal metabolic rate (BMR) as a result of digesting and absorbing food, storing nutrients and for the disposal of waste products.”
'The heat it produces torches energy'
With that said, how exactly does this process enable us to lose weight? During thermogenesis, cells are distracted from turning calories from food into stored fat by turning energy into heat, with some calories simply burned off by the raise of body temperature.
Not all food triggers this though, so take note of what to tuck into for results. Louise gives the thumbs up to green tea, as the catechins found in the drink activate fat-metabolising enzymes to increase burning. Chilli is another good choice, stimulating certain sensory neuron receptors which raise the body temperature and burns calories. Other spices like garlic, turmeric and cumin are beneficial, as are citrus fruits, fish and lean meats.
If you incorporate all these into your everyday meals, it will help aid dropping the pounds.
"We shouldn't expect miracles, but adopting a phytonutrient-dense diet to support blood sugar regulation and satiety is going to give you great results," Louise added. "This would usually include high-quality protein and plant-based foods that have lower levels of calories accompanied by natural herbs and spices that support a variety of metabolic processes."
Nutritionist Vidhi Patel agrees with a thermogenic diet, suggesting three thermogenic foods every day for the best results. Don't forget to work out alongside this too, as eating alone isn't the way to get toned.
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