Thermogenics are drugs, herbs or nutritional supplements that increase the amount of heat produced within the human body. Manufacturers may advertise thermogenics as “fat burners” or appetite suppressants. In theory, these products can facilitate weight loss by increasing metabolism and simulating exercise. Renowned naturopath Dr. Andrew Weil notes that thermogenic supplements frequently contain strong stimulants associated with significant side effects. Consult your health care provider before taking any thermogenic drug or herb, especially if you have any medical condition.
Ephedrine
During the 1990s, ephedrine–a compound found in the Chinese herb ma huang, or ephedra–was advertised as an effective thermogenic and weight loss aid. However, products containing ephedra are no longer available to the American market. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that ephedra can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, chest pain, hypertension and heart attack.
Herbs Containing Caffeine
Kola nut, guarana, coffee, cocoa, yerba mate and green tea all contain caffeine. While this stimulant thermogenic compound is generally regarded as safe, it can cause uncomfortable adverse reactions. Herbs containing caffeine can cause addiction, tremor, diarrhea, insomnia, headache and anxiety.
Bitter Orange
The rind of the bitter orange fruit contains synephrine, a compound that is chemically similar to ephedrine. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, lab rats taking bitter orange tend to eat less and lose weight, but they also develop heart abnormalities and die young. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not banned bitter orange supplements or issued a formal warning regarding their use; however, synephrine is likely to cause side effects similar to ephedrine.
Fucoxanthin
This carotenoid compound, commonly advertised as a “nonstimulant thermogenic,” is responsible for brown seaweed’s coloration. A Japanese study published in 2005 confirmed that fucoxanthin facilitates weight loss and thermogenisis in mice. No peer-reviewed human studies have investigated its use as a treatment for obesity. Since fucoxanthin contains no stimulants, it may be a safe alternative to caffeine, ephedra and synephrine.
About this Author
Juniper Russo Tarascio, a natural health consultant, has been writing professionally since April 2008. Since then, she has published over 1,000 articles for both print-based and online publications. Her primary writing interests include health, pets and natural living.
