Can drinking more water help you lose weight? Let’s find out

We all know how important it is to drink water, not just to stay hydrated but to ensure that the body is functioning properly. Some health experts also suggest that it’s great for weight loss. But is it true? Well, you can’t expect magic to happen just by drinking water. Of course, when your body gets adequate water, it works more efficiently, and that of course, means you burn more fat too.

But bear in mind that it is one of the supplementary causes for weight loss. You can’t just rely on it, because there are several factors that come together, including good nutrition and exercise, for you to lose those extra kilos. Keeping your body hydrated helps you suppress your appetite, accelerate your metabolism, and makes exercising easier. Sounds good? Well, let’s find out more.

Here’s why you should drink more water for weight loss:

1. Water can naturally suppress your appetite

Most of us look for food, when we feel we are hungry. But it isn’t necessary that we need anything other than water. Thirst that is generally triggered by mild dehydration might be mistaken for hunger by the brain. That’s why it is best to sip on some water, and then wait it out to see if you are hungry. This sends messages to your brain signaling satiety.  In fact, that’s why it is also suggested to have a few sips of water before meals. It helps in controlling portion size!

Also, Read: Can the Japanese water therapy really help you lose weight? Here’s what science says

2. Drinking water accelerates your metabolism

Yes, it’s true. Keeping yourself hydrated helps to boost your metabolism, and in turn, helps in weight management. In an eight-week study conducted in 2013, 50 girls who were struggling with excess weight drank two cups of water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner, and saw changes in their weight. Why may you ask? That’s because when you drink water, your body causes heat production in the body. The more energy expended by your body, the faster your metabolism. 

3. Reduces overall liquid calorie intake

You might want to enjoy those colas or sugary drinks, but your best bet is water. It has zero calories, so ditch those sugar-laden liquids and get high on H20. Plus, it can reduce your overall liquid calorie intake. Plus, trust us, when you follow this practice for long, you will realise how much it helps you! 

4. Drinking water helps during exercise

Your body needs water during exercise. It dissolves electrolytes, including sodium, potassium and magnesium, and distributes them throughout your body. If there’s an electrolyte balance in the body, it can cause much trouble. Plus, you won’t even have any energy to move your body. So, keep sipping on water during a workout because you don’t want your body to lose fluids more quickly. Staying hydrated also helps to maintain the volume of blood in your body. 

Moreover, water also helps to remove waste and lowers your stress levels.  In a 2015 study published in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, researchers found that increasing water intake can also help with giving you bright skin. 

How much water should you drink?

Most people saya minimum of 6-8 glasses a day is essential, but it varies depending on your age, gender, health and physical activity levels. You can also take thirst to be your guide, but experts suggest about 11 cups of water each day for women, and about 15 cups for men. Also, there’s a way to know if you are having enough water – check the colour of your urine. If it’s dark yellow, you need to up your water intake.