How to Gain Water Weight

How to Gain Water Weight
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Because the human body is composed of about 60 percent water, according to Dr. Jeffrey Utz, body weight can be gained or lost rapidly by simply adjusting the amount of water you drink and how you store it. Total body weight can generally fluctuate around 5 lbs., but you can take measures to store more water in the body, thus gaining water weight.

Step 1

Eat more carbohydrates. Every gram of carbohydrate you consume results in 3g of water being stored, according to dietitian Joanne Larsen. A diet that consists of 60 percent carbohydrates will be enough to boost the amount of water you store. Simple carbohydrates such as white bread, white pasta and simple sugar may help the body store water faster.

Step 2

Stay away from caffeine. Caffeine makes you secrete more urine, which will eventually lead to a decreased blood volume and less water weight. Drink more water and beverages that contain electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

Step 3

Eat foods high in sodium. Because they are generally higher in sodium than natural and organic foods, canned and processed foods should be emphasized. For example, a 1/2-cup serving of canned tomato soup contains about 700 mg of sodium, which is approximately 30 percent of the daily intake recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Consume at least the recommended 2,400mg of sodium a day.

Step 4

Avoid strenuous exercise. Strenuous exercise such as heavy lifting, jogging, or athletic activity causes the body to sweat out the water you are trying to gain. If your exercise makes you sweat, stop.

References

Article reviewed by Mona Newbacher Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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