Fat Burners

In today’s society the weight of individuals in relation to health and appearance is predominantly popular. Leading Government initiatives are focussing on weight loss as a means of reducing the burden of disease on society. It is well documented that a reduction in body fat can improve an individual’s health and also reduce the risk of several major health issues, such as, cardiovascular disease, strokes and diabetes. In addition to health, however, personal image and weight management is a ubiquitous issue. Resilient coverage in the media surrounding the personal image of celebrities has forced a culture within the UK where a majority of the population is self-conscious of their appearance and weight. This has contributed towards a dramatic increase in the use of fat loss or weight management supplements created by sports nutrition companies. Amongst those who utilize weight management supplements it has been suggested that few know what they are or how they work.

Many of the weight management products, or ‘fat burners,’ produced by the sports nutrition industry are similar. However, there are several predominant fat burning mechanisms utilized, two of which we will discuss. The most predominant mechanism of stimulating fat oxidisation is the use of Stimulants, Energy Boosters and Thermogenic Agents. This type of fat loss supplement works by increasing the rate at which the body burns energy. When the body creates energy an exothermic reaction occurs. In simple terms this means that when the body creates energy, heat is also produced. This is why when using fat loss supplements the user will often experience an increase in the core temperature of the body. As a method of doing this sports nutrition companies will utilize ingredients such as Ephedrine, Caffeine, Bitter Orange and DHEA. Another mechanism frequently used for the facilitation of fat loss is Carbohydrate Absorption Blockers. It is well established that the body uses carbohydrates (or glycogen) as its main source of energy. Ingredients such as Inosine, Kidney Bean Extract, Mung Bean Extract and Wheat Extract reduce the rate at which carbohydrates are absorbed in to the body. This therefore forces the body to utilize other energy sources, such as subcutaneous fat, as a means of generating energy for the body. This, therefore, leads to increased fat oxidisation and a reduction in the body fat composition in the individual.

It is apparent that there are a number of sports supplements specifically designed for the purpose of weight control. These products are utilized by a vast array of different individuals, ranging from an elite athlete to the mother of a new-born child. As the individual varies, so does the reason for the use of such supplements. There are many changing variables surrounding the topic of weight management supplements be it the individual, the mechanism or the effectiveness. The only thing which can be strongly suggested is that weight management supplements are being used in increasing quantities as the media and general society continue to focus on a subject which generates large debate.