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Does drinking water help you lose weight?

Drinking water and staying hydrated is key to losing weight. Learn more about how drinking water helps with weight loss and tips on how to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Alexander Singh
June 6, 2022

What does it mean to stay hydrated? 

Water is essential for life, but what exactly is it that makes it so important? The answer lies in its ability to hydrate our bodies. When we are properly hydrated, all of our cells and organs function optimally. However, when we become dehydrated, our bodies are unable to function at their best.

Dehydration can occur for a variety of reasons, including not drinking enough water, sweating too much, or vomiting. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, tiredness, and dark urine. If left untreated, dehydration can lead to serious health complications like heat stroke or kidney failure.

Can drinking water help with losing weight?

Yes, drinking water can help you lose weight. In fact, it can be one of the most effective weight loss strategies out there. Here's how water can help you lose weight:

1. Drinking water boosts your metabolism

Your metabolism is responsible for burning calories and converting them into energy. Drinking water helps to boost your metabolism, which in turn helps you burn more calories and lose weight.

When you drink water, your body has to use energy to heat it up to body temperature. This process – known as ‘thermogenesis’ – uses up calories and helps to boost your metabolism.

2. Drinking water suppresses your appetite

Water can help to suppress your appetite by making you feel fuller for longer. This means that you are less likely to snack on unhealthy foods or overeat at mealtimes.

3. Drinking water helps to flush out toxins

Water helps to flush out toxins from your body, which can help to boost your weight loss efforts.

When you drink plenty of water, it helps to keep your digestive system running smoothly and efficiently. This allows your body to better process the food you eat and get rid of any unwanted toxins. 

4. Drinking water boosts your energy levels

Water can help to boost your energy levels, which can be helpful when trying to lose weight. When you are well-hydrated, your body is able to function at its best and this can help you to better achieve your weight loss goals.

When you’re properly hydrated, your blood is able to carry oxygen and nutrients to your cells more efficiently. That means your cells can produce energy more effectively, and you’ll feel less tired as a result. 

How much water should you drink to lose weight?

Most experts recommend drinking eight glasses of water per day, but this may vary depending on your weight loss goals. If you are trying to lose weight, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Here are some tips on staying hydrated throughout the day: 

1. Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.

2. Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and drink often.

3. Drink water with every meal and snack.

4. Drink water before, during, and after exercise.

5. Add some flavor to your water by infusing it with fruit or herbs.

6. Try drinking sparkling water or seltzer water instead of sugary beverages.

7. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, as they can lead to dehydration.