Can drinking more water aid in weight loss? The short answer is yes (we will delve into more detail below). However, whether you are part of a weight loss regimen or not, drinking water is very beneficial to the body. Your body consists of up to sixty percent water, with the brain and heart about seventy three percent and the lungs about eighty three percent. The cells in our bodies are full of water. Our bodies need water so it is of vital importance that we stay hydrated whether we are pursuing weight loss or not.
Drinking water can play a role in weight loss, but it’s important to understand its impact within the context of a comprehensive weight loss plan. Patients to our weight loss clinic must first undergo a medical exam by our Providers before we craft an individualized weight loss plan for them.
How can drinking more water help in weight loss?
Within a medical weight loss plan, drinking more water can aid in weight loss in several ways. For instance, when you’re dehydrated, your body may confuse thirst with hunger, leading to overeating. Drinking water can help you recognize true hunger cues, potentially preventing unnecessary calorie consumption.
Drinking water before meals can help control your appetite. Consuming a glass of water before a meal can make you feel fuller, reducing the amount of food you eat, and consequently, your calorie intake. A small study published in 2018 found that drinking water before a meal helped men and women eat less and feel just as satisfied as a group who didn’t drink water before. What temperature of water should you drink? Studies suggest that drinking cold water may increase your metabolism temporarily because your body has to work to warm the water to your body temperature. This effect is relatively minor, but over time, it can contribute to calorie expenditure.
Pure water is also important as a replacement for sugary beverages like soda or juice and can significantly reduce your calorie intake. High-calorie drinks are often a hidden source of excess calories. Even diet versions of these sugary drinks can be harmful as they contain aspartame, a substance that has limited carcinogenic properties according to the World Health Organization.
As part of weight loss, exercise is recommended. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for good exercise performance. When you exercise effectively, you can burn more calories, which can contribute to weight loss. Drinking water also helps your body eliminate waste and toxins, supporting overall health. While it won’t directly lead to weight loss, a healthy body functions better, potentially aiding weight loss efforts.
It’s important to note that while water can be beneficial for weight loss, it’s not a magic solution. Weight loss primarily depends on creating a calorie deficit, where you consume fewer calories than you burn. You should incorporate a balanced diet and regular physical activity as part of your weight loss plan.
The “8×8 rule” is a common guideline that suggests drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day (about 2 liters or half a gallon). However, individual water needs can vary based on factors like body size, activity level, and climate. It’s essential to listen to your body’s signals for thirst and adjust your water intake accordingly.
In summary, while drinking water can be a helpful component of a weight loss plan, it should be part of a broader strategy that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Specialists at our Medical Weight Loss Clinic in Tampa can help you develop a strategy of exercise and diet after our healthcare providers do a physical and tests to check your overall health. If you are not in Tampa, check with your physician before embarking on any weight loss program.
