How to Boost Thermogenesis by 15%

As we’ve covered in previous newsletters, thermogenesis is a term for the body’s generation of heat; how much energy the body is “burning.” Thermogenesis is under investigation as a novel way to help with weight management. In theory, stimulating thermogenesis may result in faster energy expenditure (a.k.a. calorie-burning), even when the body is at rest. And as it turns out, triiodothyronine (T3) therapy may be useful for anyone seeking to increase their body’s thermogenesis — stoking the “inner furnace” and boosting metabolism.

While no one is exactly sure how thyroid hormones modulate metabolism, some scientists have theorized that T-3 appears to influence skeletal muscle mitochondria (the “power plants” of our cells) in a way that boosts thermogenesis. In one small study, seven healthy volunteers were given 100 micrograms of T-3 treatment every 12 hours over the course of three days. This administration of T-3 created a temporary state of hyperthyroidism, reflected by higher levels of T-3 in the blood, faster heart rate, greater consumption of oxygen, and a 15% boost in the whole-body energy expenditure. In addition, the researchers’ measurements revealed that T-3 appeared to promote mitochondrial energy in a way that increased thermogenesis within skeletal muscles. Researchers concluded their study by suggesting that these results may illustrate potential T-3 uses for regulating energy metabolism helping with obesity in humans.

Thermogenesis has been suggested to be a key factor in managing body weight. And as a heat-producing mechanism, thermogenesis has obvious benefits for anyone with slow metabolism and low body temperature. Do you think low body temp might be holding back your weight management? Go to one of the doctors on our list and get T3 therapy to stimulate thermogenesis and kickstart weight management.