Brown adipose tissue (BAT), better known as brown fat, is important in heat generation and energy expenditure. Brown fat burns calories like white fat, but instead of adding to weight gain, it actively generates heat to maintain body temperature and metabolic balance.Activation of brown fat can occur by cold exposure, some dietary ingredients, or hormones, and is associated with increased energy expenditure and improved insulin sensitivity. New research indicates that stimulating brown fat can be an effective therapeutic tool for obese and metabolic syndrome patients. Moreover, describing the molecular mechanisms of brown fat activation, including UCP1 (uncoupling protein 1), indicates promising new strategies for weight management, metabolism, and generally metabolic health.