There are countless diets, exercise routines, and weight loss supplements out there that claim to help you shed pounds, but one secret to weight loss may be as simple as drinking more water.
Water is essential to our overall health and well-being, and it can also aid in weight loss. Here are some surprising ways drinking water can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
1. Makes you feel full
Drinking water before a meal can help you feel fuller, which can decrease the amount of food you eat. It can also help you resist the urge to snack between meals. This can be particularly helpful if you struggle with overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods.
2. Boosts metabolism
Drinking water can also help boost your metabolism. A study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that drinking just 500 ml of water increased metabolic rate by 30% within 10 minutes. This can help you burn more calories throughout the day, even while at rest.
3. Helps to remove toxins
Drinking plenty of water is crucial for flushing out toxins from your body. When you are dehydrated, your body has a harder time getting rid of waste, which can lead to bloating, inflammation, and other digestive problems that can make it difficult to lose weight. Staying hydrated can help to keep your digestive system running smoothly and reduce bloating.
So how much water should you be drinking to reap these benefits? The Institute of Medicine recommends that men drink approximately 3.7 liters (or about 13 cups) of water per day and women drink approximately 2.7 liters (or about 9 cups) per day. However, this can vary depending on age, weight, and activity level.
Drinking water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your health and lose weight. Try keeping a water bottle with you throughout the day and sipping on water regularly, particularly before meals and during workouts. Making the effort to stay hydrated can lead to surprising weight loss results, along with a host of other health benefits.