Any health goal should be associated with regular physical activity and a healthy diet. The consumption of thermogenics helps to increase metabolism and enhance the effects of training and food care.
In this article, we will understand what natural thermogenic foods are and learn about the main options that can be added to our diet. Keep reading!
What are thermogenic foods?
We can define as thermogenic foods those that have substances capable of increasing body temperature, accelerating metabolism and increasing fat burning. This phenomenon happens because thermogenesis is a process regulated by the nervous system and nervous changes that can contribute to weight loss and obesity control.
When we consume a product that has this characteristic, weight loss can be achieved, if that is your main objective. However, this is not the only benefit that thermogenics can offer. In addition to helping in the slimming process , they can also favor those who practice some physical activity.
As they alter metabolism and heart rate, thermogenics drive vasodilation in veins and arteries. This allows blood to circulate in greater quantity and speed, more efficiently transporting the nutrients you need to maintain energy during exercise.
We must consider that thermogenics alone do not have the expected effect. They need to be associated with regular physical activities and a balanced diet to reach their maximum potential in our body.
What are the top natural thermogenic foods?
Now that we understand what natural thermogenic foods are, let’s get to know some of the main alternatives. It is interesting to understand that these foods only achieve the expected effect when they are part of the daily diet, and consumption in large amounts on one occasion does not bring positive results. Check out our suggestions!
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon, either in pieces or powder, is an example of a food that contains thermogenic action, as it presents a greater degree of difficulty to be digested by the body, leaving the metabolism accelerated. This, added to the high content of mineral calcium, favors weight loss.
It also helps to reduce blood sugar and is an antioxidant. In addition, it can bring benefits to those who work out and practice other exercises, as it also acts as a great anti-inflammatory, relieving muscle pain caused during activities and training.
2. Green tea
Green tea is one of the most efficient drinks to speed up metabolism, being one of the options that most promote the burning of body fat, without compromising health. It increases the production of adiponectin, a hormone that reduces inflammation, improves glucose metabolism and insulin levels, in addition to favoring fat burning.
Although it is not its main substance, it is also a source of caffeine, a natural thermogenic that has a neurostimulating action and contributes to the reduction of body fat. Its stimulating function also increases energy to perform physical activities, while its diuretic effect contributes to the reduction of swelling.
As it is a drink with caffeine and a stimulant, consumption must be controlled, and it is important to avoid taking it at night, as it can disturb the night’s sleep, in addition to causing headaches.
3. Peppers
Due to the presence of a substance called capsaicin, peppers increase the production of heat in the body, increasing perspiration. They have a high potential for speeding up metabolism and burning fat.
In this way, peppers are foods that can be used as a seasoning during meals. The best option is to rely only on fresh peppers, as the sauces can contain ingredients that reduce the natural thermogenic action.
4. Ginger
The benefits of ginger are not limited to thermogenic action, as it is also used to treat colds, coughs and flu. Detoxifying, with bactericidal action and aphrodisiac power, this food has a strong slimming power, as it also accelerates metabolism. It contains oils that produce heat, activate circulation and provide caloric burning.
Ginger is also rich in copper, potassium, magnesium and vitamin B, nutrients that are very important in anyone’s diet, especially those who work out regularly.
5. Guarana powder
Guarana powder is a natural energy source that is usually present in the diet of those who need to produce a lot in a short time and stave off sleep. The action is due to the high concentration of caffeine.
Guarana also stimulates the release of adrenaline and dopamine in the blood, helps fight physical and mental fatigue, as well as obesity. Consumption can be daily, however, care must be taken with ingestion during the night period, as it can cause insomnia because it is a stimulant.
6. Beans
Beans are mostly made up of protein rather than carbohydrates. Protein is the nutrient with the highest percentage of thermogenic effect compared to other food classes. They also contain fiber, which further enhances the thermogenic effect.
A good option is to serve the beans as a side dish, at least once a day, as they are rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, they bring little fat or cholesterol, which makes them interesting options for those looking for a healthy diet .
These are some examples of natural thermogenic foods that can bring important benefits to your health. It is always interesting to point out that their consumption must be associated with an adequate diet and physical activity, otherwise the feat will not be the same. With these allied elements, you will achieve excellent results in your workouts, in addition to achieving a healthier life.