In reflective harmony with our awareness about health and physiology in Bamber Bridge, we have enormously grown in our understanding of fat and its impact on our bodies. For a long time, fat was demonized as the black sheep in the nutrition world, however, modern knowledge qualifies that there are “good” and “bad” fats, each with pivotal roles in bodily functions. But what about white fat versus brown fat? While the terminology may be new to some, extensive research has been put into brown fat and its various implications, from its role in exercise to its activation during cold plunges.
Brown fat, scientifically referred to as brown adipose tissue (BAT), is a unique type of fat slightly darker than what we know as white fat. While white fat primarily serves as an energy storehouse, brown fat is significantly more metabolically active, serving in maintaining warmth and aiding calorie burning – it’s a pivotal component in weight management. Although individual body fat varies, it’s common to have a small proportion of brown fat compared to white fat.
A more detailed insight into white fat and brown fat has been provided by Dr. Ben Bikman in this brief video:
The health benefits provided by brown fat span numerous areas, some are listed below:
1. Calorie burning: Brown fat cells are packed with mitochondria – the energy factories of cells, enabling them to convert calories into heat. This propensity makes brown fat a great ally in weight management.
2. Body’s heat regulation: In cold temperatures, brown fat burns glucose and fat molecules to produce heat through a process called thermogenesis. This helps your body maintain a stable temperature.
3. Metabolic health: Activation of brown fat boosts the body’s metabolic rate and creates an energy deficit, potentially aiding metabolic health issues like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
One can naturally elevate the amount of brown fat in the body through practices like:
1. Embracing cold temperatures: Prior to shivering, our body’s brown fat gets activated in response to colder temperatures. Utilizing colder environments can kickstart brown fat metabolism and boost calorie burning.
2. Adopting a balanced diet: High quality nutrition is the foundation of most health goals. Concentrating on fibre-rich foods, healthy fats, and iron-rich foods (meat, leafy greens, beans) can support metabolic health and brown fat function while minimizing ultra-processed food intake.
3. Regular physical activity: Regular exercise can drive brown fat activity and convert white fat to beige fat, a process where white fat adopts the properties of brown fat.
4. Consumption of Yerba mate: Yerba mate, known for its mood and energy boosting properties, has also showcased potential towards increasing the burning of stored fat for energy.
Sustainable activation of brown fat is now deemed a useful strategy for metabolic health and weight management, owing to its ability to burn calories and regulate energy expenditure. Harness the potential of the brown fat in your body by following these helpful tips while living in Bamber Bridge!