Does Drinking Water Really Help You Lose Weight?

Practically every diet and weight loss program instructs its participants to drink plenty of water each day. The recommended amount is approximately 64 ounces; more for people who are overweight and people who work out intensely. Have you ever wondered why water is so important for weight loss?

Reason 1 - Drinking More Water Releases Stored Water

When you don't drink enough water, you push your body into "survival mode" and it hangs on to the water it already has. And you know what happens when your body retains water: swollen, puffy ankles and fingers, and a bloated belly. When you start drinking an adequate amount of water each day, your body immediately starts releasing the stored water, flushing out the bloat.

Reason 2 - Better Muscle and Joint Function

If you work out, it's vital to drink plenty of water to replace the fluid lost through perspiration. Joints and muscles also need water to function properly. Dehydration can cause joint pain, muscle fatigue and cramping.

Reason 3 - Reduced Appetite

Drinking water before each meal helps you feel fuller so you eat less.

Reason 4 - Burn More Fat

The liver is the organ responsible for metabolizing (burning) stored fat - but it cannot do that effectively when you are dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your liver (and other organs) to do their jobs better.

Other benefits of drinking plenty of water: More energy; better concentration; clearer skin; easier waste elimination; flush toxins from the body - and the list goes on. Clearly, staying hydrated is important for weight loss and general wellness.
 
If you aren't used to drinking much water, you may find it challenging to begin doing so. One of the biggest complaints is that you will probably spend a large portion of your day running to the restroom.

However, keep in mind that this is a temporary side effect - your body is actually releasing stored water and flushing out toxins in response to your new higher intake of fresh water. The frequency of urination should slow down over a period of a few days as your body adjusts to its new state of full hydration.

Another common complaint is the bland flavor of water. If you don't enjoy the taste, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to each glass. If all else fails, quickly gulp each glass down so you don't have time to focus on how much you dislike it.

Regardless of how you do it, drinking plenty of water clearly provides a plethora of positive health benefits that make it well worth the effort.