How to Lose 5 Pounds of Water Weight

Drinking plenty of water is one easy way to flush 5 lbs. of water weight.
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If you've ever researched methods of losing weight, you probably know that losing weight gradually and safely is better than a "quick fix." However, from time to time you may want to shed a quick 5 lbs. of water weight simply to better fit into a special dress or attend an important event. If so, there are some relatively easy approaches which, if done safely, can help you temporarily shed 5 lbs. and gain confidence in a pinch.

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Step 1

Drink lots of water. This might seem like counter-intuititve advice for losing water weight, but it works, says Fitness magazine advisory board member Michele Olson. In fact, water flushes sodium from your bloodstream and stops the body from retaining more water. Olson suggests drinking eight cups of water a day two days before your special occasion, and scaling back to six cups the day of the event.

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Step 2

Decrease your sodium intake. Possibly the biggest culprit when it comes to water bloat, sodium causes your body to hold extra water. The MayoClinic.com advises that you avoid seasoning your food with extra salt if you're looking to drop some fast water weight. Keep in mind that many foods, particularly prepared foods, already contain a fair amount of sodium. Read nutrition labels and avoid foods that have high sodium counts.

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Step 3

Try caffeine, within reason. The MayoClinic.com cites caffeine as a natural diuretic, meaning that it prompts you to urinate more frequently and flush extra water from your body. While caffeine may be useful in this capacity for the short term, you should be very careful in using this approach. The MayoClinic.com warns that because caffeine is a stimulant, too much of it could cause adverse effects like jitters and insomnia.

Step 4

Load up on fruits and veggies. Water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, celery, and watermelon can help achieve the same effects as drinking the 8 cups of water and will only add to your water-flushing efforts, says the MayoClinic.com. In addition, fruits and vegetables can help you feel full while delivering very low calories.

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Step 5

Sweat it out. Michele Olson of Fitness magazine suggests doing a vigorous exercise routine that makes you sweat heavily. This clearly will help you lose water from your body, and also is very likely to burn some last-minute calories. For ongoing weight loss, you can continue to incorporate a workout routine into your daily schedule.

Things You'll Need

  • Fruits

  • Vegetables

Warning

Talk to your doctor before using any water loss supplements. The MayoClinic.com warns that herbal diuretics aren't regulated by the federal government and may contain questionable ingredients.

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