Water and Weight Loss

Among its other benefits, water plays a major part in weight loss.  Since water contains no calories, it can serve as an appetite suppressant, and helps the body metabolize stored fat, it may possibly be one of the most significant factors in losing weight.  In the article "Water Bearers", (Shape magazine) Elizabeth Austin notes, "water is the single most important nutrient you take in every day.  It's fat -free, cholesterol-free, low in sodium, and completely without calories."  Also, drinking more water helps to reduce water retention by stimulating your kidneys.  Studies have recommended that if you are overweight according to average height and weight comparison charts, you should add one glass of water to your daily requirement (8 glasses) for every 25 pounds over your recommended weight. Dehydration leads to excess body fat, poor muscle tone & size, decreased digestive efficiency & organ function, increased toxicity, joint & muscle soreness, & water retention. Water works to keep muscles and skin toned. There is a difference between drinking pure water & beverages that contain water.  Fruit juice, soft drinks, coffee, etc., may contain substances that are not healthy, and actually contradict some of the positive effects of the added water.  Caffeinated beverages stimulate the adrenal glands and act as diuretics, robbing your body of necessary water.  Soft drinks contain phosphorus, which can lead to depletion of bone calcium.  Soda contains sodium.  Fruit juices contain a lot of sugar.  These drinks may tax the body more than they cleanse it.  A 12-ounce can of regular soda contains 9-10 teaspoons of sugar and loads of empty calories.