You can trick your body into burning calories without exercise. Surprised? Well, the secret lies in a hormone called irisin, which is released during exercise and helps accelerate calorie burn. But guess what? You don’t need to hit the gym or break a sweat to release this magical hormone. Researchers have discovered a simpler (though slightly uncomfortable) way to boost the production of irisin and rev up your metabolism. And it’s right inside your home!
Turn Down the Thermostat and Start Shivering
The lesser-known way to trigger the release of irisin is shivering. Yes, you heard it right! Feel those goosebumps and get ready to burn some extra calories. A study at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases revealed that shivering produces irisin levels equivalent to those released during exercise. So, lowering your home’s thermostat during colder months may benefit both your budget and your metabolism.
The Science Behind It
When your body shivers, it’s trying to generate heat to maintain its core temperature. This process involves the activation of brown fat, which is a type of body fat that burns calories to produce heat. As the brown fat activates, irisin is released, promoting the conversion of white fat to energy-burning brown fat. So, the more you shiver, the more brown fat you produce and the more calories you burn. Shivering can help you keep your weight in check, even if you are not a regular at the gym.
Strategic Shivering: How to Make It Work for You
Now that you know the secret of tricking your body into burning calories without exercise, how can you make shivering work for you? Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Lower the thermostat: Gradually decrease your home’s temperature. Start with a 1-2 degree drop and then work your way up or down to your comfort level. Remember, you don’t want to freeze! Aim for a temperature that causes mild shivering.
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Dress in layers: Removing or adding layers of clothing can help you control your body temperature better. If you start feeling too cold, put a layer back on and vice versa.
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Comfortable shivering: Make sure you are comfortable while shivering. Find a relaxing spot in your home and sit or lie down with an enjoyable activity, such as reading or watching TV.
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Combine shivering with exercise: While shivering alone can boost irisin release, combining it with exercise may have even better results. Try simple activities like stretching, yoga, or walking around the house.
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Use a cold gel pack: Place a cold gel pack on strategic parts of your body, like the back of your neck or under your arm. This can help you achieve the desired shivering effect without lowering your home’s temperature.
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Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself too hard into the cold. If you feel uncomfortable, increase the temperature or add layers of clothing. Make sure you try this method only when you’re in good health; avoid it when you’re sick or when your immune system is compromised.
Other Benefits of Exposure to Cold
Apart from boosting irisin release and burning calories, exposing yourself to cooler temperatures has other health benefits as well:
- Better sleep quality: Cooler temperatures can help you sleep better, as your body’s core temperature drops slightly during sleep. A colder room can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
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Reduced inflammation: Cold exposure has been found to reduce inflammation in the body. This can improve various health conditions and enhance overall well-being.
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Strengthens the immune system: Exposure to cold weather can help improve circulation, increase the metabolism, and strengthen the immune system.
Want to give this unconventional calorie-burning hack a try? Go ahead and play with your thermostat! Just remember to listen to your body, adapt gradually, and ensure you stay comfortable throughout the process. And if you’re willing to take it a step further, consider adding some exercise to your cold-induced shivering sessions for even better results. Happy shivering!
