Thermogenic foods burn more energy when digesting than any other food. Such foods increase the rate that the body burns stored fat to release energy. As the calories are burnt, more energy is available for physical activities, thus burning even more calories.

Thermogenic foods include guarana, ginger, cayenne pepper, salsa, mustard, grapefruit and to drink, ice cold water. However, it is important to pay attention to the bigger picture so that you are not at risk of falling for the latest fad diet and becoming inefficient at eating a balanced thermogenic diet.

In reality, all foods are thermogenic as the body must use energy to digest them. This is known as the ‘thermic effect of food’. Nevertheless, not all foods have the same thermic effect. The most thermogenic foods are lean proteins such as chicken or turkey breast and almost all types of fish or even egg whites.

Protein drinks also have a high thermic effect and can be very useful in boosting overall protein intake or as a convenient meal replacement.

A good formula for making a fat burning meal includes:

- Selecting green fibrous vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli

- Combining the vegetables with a lean protein

- The combination of lean protein and fibrous carb then forms the foundation of a fat burning meal. Now add natural starchy carbs such as brown rice or oats.

It is important to note that a good tip is to eat the most concentrated carbohydrates early in the day when fuel is needed or after weight or gym training. This will aid fat loss whilst stimulating muscle growth.