Energy and Metabolism: A Balancing Act with Capsicum Extract

Capsicum Extract

In the quest for optimal health and well-being, the balance of energy and metabolism plays a pivotal role. Every cell in our body relies on energy to function, and the efficiency of our metabolism determines how well we convert food into the energy we need for daily activities. Among the myriad natural substances touted for their health benefits, capsicum extract, derived from chili peppers, has garnered significant attention. Renowned for its thermogenic properties, capsicum extract not only adds a fiery kick to our meals but also offers promising advantages for metabolism support and enhancing energy levels.

What’s the Link Between Energy and Metabolism?

Energy and metabolism go hand in hand. Metabolism is the chemical process of converting food and drinks into energy. The key to maintaining a healthy weight is to maintain energy balance—calories consumed vs. calories burned. Two critical factors determine that balance. On one side of the scale is the total caloric intake from food and beverages. On the other side are the total energy expenditure (TEE) from physical activity, resting energy expenditure (REE), and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT). Essentially, REE (your metabolism) is a realistic measurement of the amount of energy burned in a twenty-four-hour period. That includes basic bodily functions like breathing, heartbeats, and maintaining a normal temperature, along with “real world” activities, such as walking, light stretching, and going to the bathroom. REE has the largest impact on energy metabolism (60-75% in sedentary people).

Beyond REE, physical activity and DIT play a decisive role in determining weight management. 

The type, duration, and intensity of physical activity can have varying impacts on energy metabolism from one person to the next. While two people may follow the same exercise regimen, the energy expenditure may be quite different for both. In some cases, a 2015 study suggests the amount of exercise may be ineffective, leading to weight gain for some individuals.

Diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT)—the increase in energy expenditure after eating—contributes approximately 3-10% to energy expenditure. With DIT, the body produces heat as it works to digest and metabolize the nutrients in food to convert them into usable energy. 

While consuming fewer calories than the total energy expenditure may seem like the simple, straightforward way to lose weight, for some, it isn’t that easy. Despite a lower caloric intake, many individuals still have difficulty losing weight. The main reason is that the body can have difficulty shifting its metabolism. From age, sex, genetics, and more, many factors can influence a person’s metabolism. As the body “fights” to restrict calories, people often become frustrated and give up on their weight wellness goals. Also, as caloric intake slows, REE can begin to follow suit, making it much harder to lose weight. The problem is when weight loss occurs, muscle loss can also accompany it. When that happens, REE is “re-set” to a lower level. In other words, the demand to stay at a lower level of caloric intake can be too hard for individuals, resulting in a plateau or even added weight!

Proper diet and physical activity are excellent first steps to tipping the scale toward a negative energy balance. Muscle is much more metabolically active than fat, which is why losing weight without building or maintaining muscle may make individuals tired and weak. Increasing fat-free mass maintains metabolism, keeping the body in a negative energy balance.

What is Capsicum Extract?

Since it has the largest impact on energy metabolism, maintaining REE during caloric restriction can help support long-term weight wellness. Capsicum extract is a “thermogenic” dietary supplement that can positively change REE. Capsicum, or chili pepper, contains a group of compounds called capsaicinoids, which provide the “spicy kick” associated with peppers. These capsaicinoids include capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, and nordihydrocapsaicin—the three main capsaicinoids that contribute to 90% of the capsaicinoid concentration found in chili peppers. 

How Can Capsicum Extract Help Balance Energy and Metabolism?

May Boost Metabolism 

Capsicum extract, particularly its active component capsaicin, has thermogenic properties that increase the body’s heat production. This boost in thermogenesis raises the metabolic rate, helping the body burn more calories even at rest. By enhancing metabolic efficiency, capsicum extract may support overall energy balance and weight management.

May Support Lipolysis

Lipolysis is the process of turning stored fat into free fatty acid, which can be used for energy. Capsaicinoids are known to stimulate lipolysis. By breaking down stored fat for fuel, individuals may experience an increase in their metabolic rate and energy support. 

May Suppress Appetite 

Capsaicinoids are not stimulants, which means they won’t raise blood pressure, unlike the popular thermogenic caffeine. Capsicum extract can help reduce appetite and decrease overall caloric intake. A 2016 study indicated a significant decrease in appetite with the support of capsaicinoids. This appetite-suppressing effect contributes to a more balanced energy intake and expenditure.

Capsimax for Metabolism and Energy Balance

Capsimax is a concentrated extract of capsaicinoids sourced from red chili peppers (Capsicum annum). These natural compounds are what give spicy foods their heat. Unlike standard chili extracts, Capsimax uses Omnibead, a controlled-release encapsulating technology, to deliver effective levels of capsaicinoids without causing stomach discomfort, a common issue with unprotected chili pepper extracts.

Capsimax may help support the energy equation through appetite control and REE. In one open-label, placebo-controlled crossover study involving 40 subjects, Capsimax supplementation ( 2 mg capsaicinoids, 100 mg Capsimax) or placebo was administered to 40 subjects, resulting in significantly (p ≤ 0.05) greater energy expenditure by 6% vs. placebo. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in 2021 involving 28 subjects under fasted conditions, Capsimax supplementation (2 mg capsaicinoids, 100 mg Capsimax) or placebo was administered. The results indicated that Capsimax increased metabolism and supported a burn total of ~104 calories over 4 hours among all study participants. 

Capsimax is derived from a natural, Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) food source. It’s suitable for use in capsules, tablets, and powdered beverages, providing flexibility in developing premium formulas. OmniActive’s Capsimax is backed by several studies, supporting its role in effective weight management. Contact us today to learn about the power of Capsimax!