What is the effect of dietary fat on thermogenesis?

Individuals predisposed to obesity because of decreased diet-induced thermogenesis have been shown to be extremely sensitive to marked weight gain when consuming a high-fat diet, compared to lean individuals. However, individuals predisposed are not only more sensitive to the weight-gain promoting effects of a high-fat diet, they tend to consume much more dietary fat than lean individuals, and they tend to exercise less. Let's take a look at this equation:

Predisposition to obesity due to decreased diet-induced thermogenesis + Increased sensitivity to weight-gain promoting effects of a high fat diet + Consumption of a high-fat diet + Lack of exercise = Obesity

Perhaps, more important than consuming a low-fat diet to promote weight loss is making sure that the diet is composed of the right types of fats. Specifically, monounsaturated fats and sources of medium chain triglycerides can help promote diet-induced thermogenesis and weight loss. We have highlighted the importance of monounsaturated fats in improving insulin sensitivity and promoting satiety in the book Hunger Free Forever. In addition to these mechanisms, the monounsaturated fats in nuts, seeds, and olive oil have been shown to produce an increase in diet-induced thermogenesis.

Find out more about this book: Hunger Free Forever: The New Science of Appetite Control

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