There are two things to to getting thinner: burn stored body fat as energy and speed up your metabolism. A lot of individuals have a slow metabolism, and they end up needing more than just eating less, and exercising more frequently. That is why there are supplements available that are there to increase your metabolic process, and promote thermogenesis. Thermogenesis happens when energy is converted from your body's stored fat. There is a product, made by Pharmaxa Labs, known as Phenocal, that claims to be effective in both areas. A unique mix of plants and herbs quickens the metabolic rate and encourages thermogenesis while at the same time making you feel less hungry and more energetic. That may be quite a bit for a simple supplement, but it possesses several effective active ingredients.

The ingredients that are well-known for safe but fast weight loss are Green Tea, Evodiame and Chromium. Green Tea has been a popular drink in many parts of the world, but only became prominent in the West after it was discovered to be high in antioxidants and promoted weight loss. What makes green tea so effective as a supplement for weight loss diets is that it has compounds known as catechin polyphenols that encourage the burning and conversion of fats into energy. A Japanese study has provided evidence that the daily intake of five cups of the tea can burn fat and boost the metabolism.

Caffeine, which revs up the metabolic process, and epigallocatechin gallate, which burns body fat, are also found Green Tea. Green Tea products are not similar, however; several of them do not have enough of the active ingredients. The manufacturing process can gravely affect the efficacy of the compounds found in the herbs. Phenocal not only contains both catechins found in Green Tea, but also contains one more component in Chromium. Carbohydrates and fats cannot be utilized in the body without this essential trace mineral. Due to its numerous roles, Chromium has become popular. Its role in the burning of fats has led to it being widely used in diet pills.

Obesity is a risk factor for both diabetes and cardiovascular disease; by helping individuals slim down, Chromium reduces the risk of acquiring these illnesses. The incorrect weight loss regimen can trigger muscle loss; losing weight with Chromium doesn't do this - instead it promotes muscle growth, and an added benefit is that LDL (bad cholesterol) levels are decreased. Another component in Phenocal is Evodiamine, another substance with thermogenic properties. Being able to raise your body temperature and quicken your metabolism are known properties of the alkaloid Evodiamine, known as Wu-Chu-Wu by the Chinese, which is derived from the plant Evodiae Fructus. As the body's temperature goes up, the more fuel derived from the conversion of fats and carbohydrates is used.

Although these are but three of many other components you will find in Phenocal, Green Tea, Chromium and Evodiamine are the main ones when it comes to weight loss. Studies carried out independently of Phenocal's producer have shown that the active ingredients of the supplement do indeed promote weight loss.