Advances in research on thermogenic substances

In mammals, a constant body temperature is maintained for survival in cold environments, primarily through the activation of thermogenic mechanisms. In this review, we discussed the advances in research on cold-adaptive thermogenic substances and their regulation. First, we outlined the primary thermogenic responses to cold exposure, including shivering thermogenesis (ST) and non-shivering thermogenesis (NST), and emerging thermogenic pathways. Next, we discussed the mechanism of action of various thermogenic substances, including nutrients, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), TCM extracts, and dietary functional factors. This review provides a theoretical foundation for developing cold-resistance preparations with minimal side effects.