Thermogenesis

Thermogenesis is the process of heat production in organisms.

Usually thermogenesis describes mammalian processes. But, although they are rare, some species of thermogenic plants do exist.

Types
Two ways "Thermogenic methods" can be classified are: Based upon whether they are or are not initiated through locomotion and intentional movement of the muscles.
 * 1) Exercise associated thermogenesis (EAT)
 * 2) Non-exercise associated thermogenesis (NEAT)

Shivering
One method to raise temperature is through shivering.

Non-shivering thermogenesis
Non-shivering thermogenesis usually occurs in brown adipose tissue (brown fat) that is present in human infants and hibernating mammals. It is a process whereby substances such as free fatty acids (derived from triacylglycerols) remove purine (ADP,GDP...) inhibition of thermogenin (uncoupling protein-1) which causes an influx of H+ into the matrix of the mitochondria and bypasses the ATP synthase channel. This uncouples oxidative phosphorylation and the energy from the proton motive force is dissipated as heat rather than producing ATP from ADP.

The low demands of thermogenesis mean that they will draw, for the most part, on lipolysis as the method of energy production.

Artificial thermogenesis
Thermogenesis can however be achieved by artificial means. It is becoming common for people to use thermogenics to help control fluctuation in weight. Thermogenics work by increasing the body's core temperature by increasing its metabolism. Thermogenics are commonly made up of ephedra, bitter orange, capsicum, ginger and caffeine.

Bodybuilders are the most common users of thermogenics; however, they are entering the mainstream of the dieting industry.