Thermogenic Response

Definition

The thermogenic response refers to the body's process of heat production, which occurs when you consume food, as part of digestion and metabolism.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Thermogenic response is the process through which your body generates heat (thermogenesis) following the ingestion of food, characterized by the metabolic processing of nutrients that produces energy and heat as a byproduct. This response plays a role in your overall energy expenditure, including basal metabolic rate and the energy required for physical activity.

Benefits

• Helps in maintaining body temperature.
• Contributes to increased metabolism, which can aid in weight management.
• Assists in the efficient use of calories.
• Enhances nutrient processing and energy expenditure.

Examples

• Protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, and legumes.
• Spicy foods such as chili peppers.
• Green tea, known for its metabolism-boosting properties.

Additional Information

• Effects: Thermogenic response increases the metabolic rate temporarily after meals due to the energy required for nutrient absorption, digestion, and metabolism, contributing to the daily energy expenditure.

Related Terms

• Basal Metabolic Rate
• Calorie
• Metabolism
• Energy Expenditure
• Weight Management

References

• Thermogenesis: How Our Bodies Burn Calories
• The Role of Metabolism in Energy Balance