The Truth About Thermogenics: Are They Effective?

Whether you’ve been inside a supp store or checked us out online, you’ve probably seen fat burners, pre-workouts and thermogenics. The first two are pretty self-explanatory, but if you’ve found yourself wondering what an earth thermogenic is, you’re not alone.
 

While pre-workouts are taken before training to support overall energy and endurance, both fat burners and thermogenics are often used to support your body goals. The difference? Thermogenics and fat burners target your body goals through different methods. Both formulas contain fairly similar blueprints, but fat burners are thought to support the process by working to break fat cells down and convert them into energy. Thermogenics, in contrast, work by generating heat (a process called thermogenesis) and accelerating your metabolism (Sellers, C. 2023).

If you’re finding it difficult to distinguish between thermogenics, fat burners, and pre-workouts, check out our blog on Pre-Workout, Thermogenics and Fat-Burners. What’s The Difference & What Should I Use?

Now, let's make one thing clear: thermogenics aren’t a magical mystery solution to fat loss. So, before we move on, let’s bust a few myths about thermogenics.

Most people want results without the hard work, and this myth reinforces that. If you’re taking a thermogenic each day without making any lifestyle changes, you’re going to be disappointed in the results. These supplements work best when used in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise routine (Henning, J. 2022).

No, sorry, that’s not how that works (as much as we wish it did). You’re going to need to consistently supplement with your thermogenic pre-workout while maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine. Once you’ve built consistency, you should start to notice improvements in your performance and physique.

While they all support the same goal, not all weight loss supplements work the same. Whether you’re looking at weight loss protein powder, fat burners, thermogenic pre-workouts or appetite suppressants, different supplements approach weight loss in different ways. Moreover, everyone reacts differently to these supplements. Different health conditions, hormone levels, activity levels, and dietary restrictions and preferences can all play a role in how these supplements support weight loss. These factors are key.

Thermogenics work by inciting thermogenesis, which, as you can probably guess, is a process that produces heat naturally. This happens mainly in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and skeletal muscle but can also occur in other tissues. The sympathetic nervous system controls this process and activates certain receptors, including beta-adrenergic receptors.

The process involves the activation of beta-adrenergic receptors, with compounds like ephedrine and caffeine helping to stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors. This stimulates the release of a chemical called norepinephrine, which plays a key role in thermogenesis. The next step is to increase your metabolic rate. Norepinephrine signals different tissues in the body to speed up their metabolism, which may help you burn more calories. The most noticeable effect is in adipose tissue, where stored fat is broken down and released into the bloodstream as free fatty acids. Finally, this leads to an increase in body temperature as a result of the higher metabolic rate and the generated heat. This heat is one of the key ways that thermogenics are thought to support weight management (Frey, T. 2023).

If you managed to understand what we were talking about above, well done. Now, let’s move on to something a little easier to digest. Here are the most common thermogenic pre-workout ingredients, so if you’ve purchased a fat-burning thermogenic before, you’re probably familiar with a few of these.

When it comes to pre-workouts, fat burners, and thermogenics, caffeine is almost always the first ingredient on the recipe card (unless you’re shopping Non-Stim). Caffeine is renowned for its support in achieving body goals. This compound supports your metabolism and may help you burn more fat during exercise. Studies demonstrate that caffeine can amplify metabolism by up to 16% for 1-2 hours. It also promotes fat utilisation as fuel, particularly in individuals with less weight. The key thing is to make sure you don’t go overboard with caffeine. Most thermogenic pre-workout supplements and energy supplements contain high doses of caffeine, so it is important to assess your tolerance. The daily recommended caffeine limit is 400mg, so as long as you’re not taking multiple thermogenic pre-workouts in a day, you should be fine (Raman, R et al. 2023). But of course, if you are sensitive to caffeine, pregnant or lactating, then this should be avoided.

Green tea is among the healthiest beverages on the planet, and as a result, it is a staple in most thermogenic pre-workout supplements. Loaded with antioxidants and healthy compounds, green tea has long been linked with fat-burning and weight management. Green tea contains caffeine (in lower doses than your standard cup of coffee), which, as we mentioned above, is perhaps the most important ingredient when it comes to managing weight (Gunnars, K. 2023).
 

Green tea is also loaded with strong antioxidants known as catechins, with the most important catechin, EGCG, helping to accelerate metabolism. Green tea can improve the effect of certain fat-burning hormones and is particularly effective at supporting fat-burning when taken before exercise. This makes it a vital inclusion in thermogenic fat burner supplements (Gunnars, K. 2023).

Capsaicin, a compound found abundantly in fruits and plants of the Capsicum family, such as bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, and chilli peppers, is a key ingredient in thermogenics. This versatile compound aids weight management by supporting metabolism, aiding appetite reduction, and reducing inflammation. This compound can also help with increasing oxygen consumption and body temperature, and as a result, facilitates the necessary calorie burning to support your body goals. Capsaicin's wide-ranging benefits make it a common and effective addition to various thermogenic pre-workout supplements (Preiato, D. 2020).

L-carnitine is an amino acid that is commonly found in thermogenic pre-workout supplements. This compound is said to support your body goals by helping you transport fatty acids into the cell’s mitochondria, where they are oxidised into usable energy. While there are several different types of carnitine, L-carnitine is the most common form included in thermogenic supplements. Carnitine may also play a role in reducing body weight, body mass index, and fat mass and can play a role in exercise performance (Mawer, R et al. 2023).

B vitamins often go unnoticed as a crucial ingredient in thermogenics but don't underestimate their value when it comes to supporting your body goals. These vitamins play a vital role in energy production, particularly vitamin B3 (niacin), which helps convert carbohydrates into usable energy. Furthermore, vitamin B12 can play a role in weight management, with adequate levels of vitamin B12 supporting a lower risk of obesity. With its impact on fat metabolism and overall body composition, B vitamins are a common and beneficial ingredient in thermogenics (Sun, Y et al. 2019).

If you’re sold on thermogenics, and you’re keen to get your hands on the best thermogenic pre-workouts available, we’ll show you the light. From the globally-recognised OxyShred thermogenic fat burner to the more potent thermogenics for your seasoned trainers, we’ve got everything you need to start approaching your goals.

Faction Labs Deficit is a highly regarded thermogenic pre-workout specially crafted to assist you in achieving your desired physique. This powerful formula contains an impressive 4g of active ingredients per serving, meticulously chosen to support both your energy levels and overall well-being. The blend consists of acetyl L-carnitine, L-carnitine fumarate, acetyl L-tyrosine, alpha GPC, and green tea extract, among others. Faction Labs Deficit can be a reliable companion, supporting your energy levels while propelling you towards your body goals. Experience the difference.

Evolve Pyro is a premium thermogenic created to help you get closer to achieving your targets while supporting your energy and performance during training. This Australian formula boasts a potent blend of ingredients like L-taurine, beta-alanine, N-acetyl tyrosine, and caffeine. These compounds combine to support energy levels and endurance during exercise. Pyro's unique composition is further distinguished by InfinergyTM di-caffeine malate, which helps to reduce post-caffeine crashes. This formula also contains bitter orange extract, TeaCrine, and grains of paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, Pyro can be your secret weapon for hitting your goals.

Take a look at D-Fine8 by MuscleWerks. This potent thermogenic stands out as one of the most effective thermogenics on the market. Packed with ingredients like caffeine, N-acetyl-L-tyrosine, paradoxine, synephrine, and vitamin B6, this formula supports energy and performance while helping you target your specific goals. It provides sustained focus and energy throughout the day, helping you perform at your highest level. This complete thermogenic support, crash-free energy, and contains zero carbs, calories, or sugars. Consider D-Fine8 the ultimate training partner.

EHP Labs has established a global reputation for supporting exceptional results, and Oxyshred is their masterpiece. This internationally renowned Oxyshred thermogenic fat burner is meticulously crafted with a blend of energy-supporting ingredients and vitamins, including acetyl L-carnitine, bitter orange herbal extract, hydroxycitric acid, conjugated linoleic acid, green coffee bean, and caffeine. OxyShred can support the pursuit of your body goals by supporting energy and performance while helping you pursue your specific body goals. OxyShred's powerful formulation is the go-to choice for individuals committed to achieving their desired health and fitness goals.

Onest Health Hyperburn is a potent thermogenic formula that supports your body and performance, helping you achieve your fitness goals. With ingredients like L-theanine, Capsimax'®, citrus aurantium, grapefruit extract, piperine, and more, this scientifically proven thermogenic formula can help you hit your targets efficiently. Utilising the benefits of L-carnitine, L-tartrate, and acetyl L-carnitine supports focus and helps to initiate thermogenesis. Onest Health Hyperburn supports clean, long-lasting energy without any fillers, additives, or preservatives.

Body Science's Shred Ultra Advanced is arguably the most dependable thermogenic available and offers a cutting-edge formula that promotes thermogenesis and enhances energy production. This TGA-approved thermogenic incorporates herbal ingredients, vital vitamins and minerals, along with well-known weight-loss-supporting compounds like acetyl L-carnitine, caffeine, and withania somnifera to help improve body metabolism and support healthy thyroid hormones. Additionally, it supports immune system health and function. Designed to support athletes and individuals working towards their body goals, Shred Ultra Advanced is versatile and can be taken before workouts or throughout the day to support energy production and mental concentration.

At the end of the day, if you’re trying to achieve certain body goals, the best supplement you can add to your stack in a thermogenic pre-workout. These thermogenic formulas can support your body goals, promoting thermogenesis and giving you the edge to help you hit your goals.

For further education on the benefits of thermogenic pre-workouts or for assistance in finding the best thermogenics, we’ve got you covered. Simply head in-store or reach out online, and our friendly team will gladly direct you towards the best supplements for thermogenesis.

Discover our Education Hub to read related articles such as Pre-workout vs Thermogenic: What's The Difference or The Best Thermogenic Supplements For Weight Management

Frey, T. 2023, ‘Understanding Thermogenics: The Science Behind Fat Burning’, Helix Gym, accessed November 2023, https://helixsp.com/understanding-thermogenics-the-science-behind-fat-burning/

Sellers, C. 2023, ‘Thermogenic Fat Burner Supplements: Do They Actually Work?’ Total Shape, accessed November 2023, https://totalshape.com/supplements/thermogenic-fat-burner/

Gunnars, K. 2023, ‘How Green Tea Can Help You Lose Weight’, Healthline, accessed November 2023, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-tea-and-weight-loss

Raman, R et al. 2023, ‘5 Natural Fat Burners That Work’, Healthline, accessed November 2023, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/5-natural-fat-burners 

Preiato, D. 2020, ‘What Are Capsaicin Supplements, and Do They Aid Weight Loss?’ Healthline, accessed November 2023, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/capsaicin-supplement

Sun, Y et al. 2019, ‘Inverse Association Between Serum Vitamin B12 Concentration and Obesity Among Adults in the United States’, Frontiers in Endocrinology, accessed November 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6610317/

Mawer, R et al. 2023, L-Carnitine: Benefits, Side Effects, Sources, and Dosage’, Healthline, accessed November 2023, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/l-carnitine

Henning, J. 2023, ‘Do Fat Burners Work? Busting Five Weight Loss Supplement Myths’, Health Works Collective, accessed November 2023, https://www.healthworkscollective.com/do-fat-burners-work-busting-five-weight-loss-supplement-myths/#:~:text=Myth%3A%20Fat%20burners%20will%20work%20without%20exercise&text=Some%20people%20think%20that%20a,healthy%20diet%20and%20regular%20exercise.