Brown Fat

When we think of fat, our minds often jump to white fat—the stubborn kind responsible for storing energy (calories) in our bodies and that is so darn hard to get rid of. While most fat in adults consists of this kind, it works alongside its fascinating counterpart, brown fat.

What is Brown Fat

Brown fat, also known as brown adipose tissue, gets its name from the abundance of iron-rich mitochondria it contains, lending it a distinctive color. Unlike white fat, brown fat serves multiple functions within our bodies.

Thermogenesis

One of its key roles is thermogenesis, the process of generating heat to regulate body temperature. When brown fat is activated, its mitochondria converts stored energy (calories) into heat. This not only expends energy but also has the potential to enhance metabolic health and contribute to weight loss.

Interestingly, as humans, we're born with a significant amount of brown fat, a protective measure in our early days when we lack the ability to shiver and warm ourselves when cold. However, as we age, this percentage gradually decreases. It is for this reason that exposing newborns and children to cold has such outstanding results. The good news is that we can preserve and even accumulate brown fat even as adults.

How to Activate Brown Fat

The most effective method is deliberate cold exposure. Research suggests that dedicating a minimum of 11 minutes per week to immersing oneself in freezing water will result in noticeable brown fat accumulation. Furthermore, individuals living in colder climates tend to have a higher proportion of brown fat compared to those in warmer regions. It's worth noting, though, that this field of study is relatively new, and scientific exploration is still somewhat limited.

In addition to cold exposure, other strategies can activate brown fat, including engaging in physical activity and adopting a selective diet.

By practicing consistant cold water submerssion , lowering the temperature at home, and living an active style, you can accumulate brown , fortify our resilience, and improve overall health. Stay tuned for the upcoming newsletter, where we'll delve into a selection of foods that can help nurture brown fat, offering a handy "cheat sheet" for becoming more "freezilient."