How to Lose Weight: #15: Drink Water

David Bennett

Water is an ancient symbol of life, nourishment, and regeneration, which is why Christians use water in the sacrament of baptism. It is no wonder water is such a powerful symbol: the human body is 60 percent water, and without water, we would die in a matter of days.

According to Flip the Switch, most of us are chronically dehydrated. Our bodies naturally lose about ten cups of water a day, and this doesn't include water lost from intense exercise, and the dehydrating effects of stress, cola, and other factors. So it seems that most of us are water deficient.

Not only are we chronically dehydrated, but our dehydration is making it harder for us to lose weight. According to Flip the Switch:

- Dehydration may cause the build-up of fat deposits, and increased fluid intake enhances the biochemical processes that help the body release fatty acids from fat cells in the blood stream. The message? More water equals fewer fat deposits.

- When our bodies are dehydrated, we may perceive dehydration signals as hunger pangs, and eat more, so staying hydrated may help us eat less.

- A German study found that sipping 2 liters of water a day increased calorie burning by 100 calories. In the course of a year, that will result in a loss of 10 pounds.

- One study found that after sipping 17 ounces of ice water, a person's metabolism is raised by 30 percent for around 90 minutes. Apparently, the body has to use extra energy to warm the water to body temperature. Drinking 17 ounces of water seems to be especially helpful in boosting metabolism if the ice water is drunk in the morning.

Water Pitcher, photographed by David Bennett

I try to drink a lot of water throughout the day, beginning in the morning. It keeps me hydrated and my stomach full all day. I am fortunate that our school has a water cooler. I take a big 44 ounce Speedway cup and fill it and drink it throughout the day. My wife and I also recently bought a fridge that has purified water hooked up to it; this has helped us drink a lot more water, because it tastes great (I find myself craving the purified water). I also drink 17 ounces or more of ice water first thing in the morning, as mentioned above. I just fill up the water bottle the night before, and put it in the fridge. By morning it is very cold, although I admit that doing this is much easier in the summer than in the winter! It really makes sense to drink a lot of water in the morning. Would we ever go 8 hours straight without any liquid? Well, that is what we do at night, so it is logical that in the morning we would need to seriously rehydrate ourselves!

In conclusion, consuming enough water is an important component of any good weight loss plan. It is pretty cheap too: get a big cup, go to a faucet, and proceed to drink.

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Disclaimer: These tips reflect the insights of one or more individuals about weight loss and other issues of health. These insights are based on personal experience and scientific research, to help you live a life of greater wellness. They should not be construed as medical advice or the services of a dietician. Before beginning any weight loss or exercise program, you should consult a physician.