How Much Water to Drink a Day to Lose Weight?
Drinking water to lose weight is one of the best weight loss techniques out there. Not only will drinking water help you to lose weight, but it will also improve your overall health from the functioning of your organs to the appearance of your skin. If you’ve been wondering does water help you lose weight, you can stop wondering and start drinking more!
Does Drinking Water Help you Lose Weight?
The quick and simple answer is: absolutely! Water plays many important roles and is even more critical for individuals who are trying to lose weight. Just the fact that you’re asking yourself “How much water should I drink to lose weight?” means that you’re on the right track. Too many people discount the amazing powers of pure, simple water when it comes to weight loss. Here are just a few of the ways that water can assist with weight loss:
- Water is essential for the kidneys to work properly. Without enough water your liver will pitch in to help the kidneys perform their duties. When the liver is helping the kidneys it will not be able to help burn as much fat. When you drink more water your liver will be able to convert more fat to energy.
- When you don’t drink enough water you retain water. This may not make sense at first glance, but there is some logic there. If your body believes that it won’t get enough water it will hold on to water as much as it can. Extra water will be stored in your ankles, hands, fingers and face. Once you begin to drink enough this extra water will be released.
How Much Water to Drink a Day to Lose Weight?
The answer to that question depends on your weight and how much you exercise. However, there are a few general guidelines. In 2004 the Institute of Medicine reported that for women 2.7 liters was adequate for hydration and 3.7 liters for men. It is possible to drink too much water, so be sure to drink in moderation.
How to Get in Enough Water
If you’ haven’t been drinking enough water, the thought of drinking 8 or more glasses per day may seem daunting. Here are some ideas to help you get in the necessary amount of fluids:
- When you first wake up, drink a full 8 ounce glass of water. Try it at room temperature and drink it before you begin your morning routine. When you get one glass in first thing in the morning it helps your body get ready for the day.
- Drink a glass of water before every meal and snack. Often you feel hungry because your body actually craves water. There is a lot of water in various foods and if your body doesn’t get enough water it will trigger hunger. If you drink before every meal you’ll find that you’ll eat less as well which can also help you to lose weight.
- If you get tired of drinking plain water try herbal tea, either hot or iced. Decaffinated tea will count toward your total water intake.
Drinking water is essential for good health and can go a long way toward helping you with your weight loss goals. While it may take your body some time to adjust, give it 2 weeks and see how much of a difference it makes in the way you feel – and in the number that is displayed on the scale.
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