How To Lose Water Weight
Water weight can account for extra pounds when you step on the scale, discomfort and tighter clothing, and can even cause you to look heavier than you actually are. When you lose water weight you will be slimmer, more attractive, and more comfortable.
Increase Your Intake Of Water
It may sound counterproductive, but drinking more water can help you lose water weight. The reason for this is water weight is often caused by fluid retention, and drinking fresh water will flush the fluids out of your system. Water will also help you stay hydrated and refreshed.
Have a cool glass of water whenever you are thirsty, when the temperatures are hot, and when you have been exercising. However, do not force yourself to drink too much water.
Oddly enough, the first step outlined here as the beginning of a UFC fighter inspired weight cut regimen, is to begin drinking 2 gallons of water per day.
Consume Moderate Amounts Of Caffeine
A fresh cup of tea or coffee will also flush excess fluids from your system. You can enjoy a cup or two every day. Caffeine is a natural diuretic, and will increase your output of urine.
Limit Your Consumption Of Sodium
Sodium causes your body to retain fluid. When you want to lose water weight, do not add salt to your food. Avoid salty snacks. If you eat canned foods or processed foods, read the labels. Many of these products are high in sodium.
Monitor Your Electrolytes
Potassium and magnesium regulate the water balance in your body. If you do not have enough in your diet, it can lead to excess water weight. Add foods containing potassium and magnesium to your diet, or take supplements. You can also find sports drinks that will replenish your electrolytes.
There are numerous foods that provide potassium or magnesium. Dark green leafy vegetables provide both electrolytes.
Eight Hours Of Sleep Each Night
There are many health benefits to sleep, including balancing the fluids in your body. Sleep controls your body’s hydration levels, and helps your kidneys stay healthy.
Exercise Every Day
Exercise increases perspiration. If you exercise for one hour, you can lose between 16 and 64 ounces of water through perspiration. Exercise also causes water to shift into your muscles.
Reduce Stress
Stress can cause many health issues, including excess water weight. Fluid retention can occur from long-term or severe stress. Reduce the stress in your everyday life, and learn stress-reduction techniques to help you relax. These steps will have a positive effect on your stress hormones, and you will start to lose water weight.
Consider A Low-Carb Diet
Carbohydrates increase sodium retention. They also cause water to be reabsorbed into your kidneys. When you reduce the carbs in your diet, it will increase the water in your muscles and cause you to lose excess water weight.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can lead to fluid retention in your body. Avoid alcohol entirely, or only drink in moderation.
Eat Fiber-Rich Foods
Fiber is good for your digestive system, and it also helps reduce water retention. Make sure there is enough fiber in your daily diet. Some products with a high fiber content include whole grain breads, cereals, and rice.
Reduce Sugar In Your Diet
Sugar can cause your body to retain sodium. When you want to lose water weight, keep your consumption of sugar at a minimum. This includes all foods and beverages with a high sugar content, as well as corn syrup.
What About Diuretics?
If water weight is your main problem, you may wonder if diuretics are the solution. While there are various diuretics in both prescription and over-the-counter form, you should not use these products unless you have been advised to do so by your personal physician.
As your doctor is familiar with your health history, discuss your weight loss goals. He can tell you if one of these products can be useful and safe for you.
However, natural approaches are healthy and safe for most people. When you want to lose water weight, it can be as simple as making these changes to your diet and your lifestyle habits.
You can be free from the uncomfortable bloating that often accompanies fluid retention, and be slim and attractive, too. Your clothes will no longer feel too tight, and the water weight you lose will even show a difference when you step on your scale.
