Sane Ways to Burn Fat

So about that polar vortex…it might actually be good for your metabolism. Shivering releases a hormone called irisin, which stimulates calorie-burning brown fat tissue in your body, according to a new study publishing in the journal Cell Metabolism.

Through several experiments, researchers found that the amount of irisin produced while shivering was similar to the amount your body secretes during exercise. Plus, when fat cells were given a precursor of irisin, they burned more energy. So is shivering the new weight-loss secret? Not exactly. 

MORE: Does Eating Late at Night Really Lead to Weight Gain? 

See, a previous study also found that lowering your thermostat can help rev up your metabolism—but it's not exactly a foolproof plan. Sure, shivering might increase your metabolism in a way similar to exercise, but you're missing out on all the cardio and toning benefits you'd get from a real workout. And it won't double your calorie-burn if you work out in the freezing cold: Exercise generates heat, so your body wouldn't be shivering for long, says study author Franceso Celi, M.D., M.H.S.c., of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases. Not to mention, freezing your ass off is just plain unpleasant.

MORE: The Horrifying New Weight-Loss Tool 

So instead of trying to burn more calories out in the polar vortex (because come on, that's insane), try these 11 tricks to boost your metabolism all day long. 

MORE: 8 Habits That Are Messing With Your Metabolism 

1. Prev:How to do a Part-Time Diet Right
2. Next:The Most Important Time for Weight Loss