The idea of losing weight by means of sweating is a common misconception. Sweating can help your body eliminate unwanted water retention. This can result in quick and immediate weight loss. However, losing weight by means of sweating doesn't cause you to lose body fat. Sweating for weight loss is a temporary fix; you always regain the weight you have lost.
Sweating
Sweat, also called perspiration, is the release of a salt-like liquid from the sweat glands of your body. Perspiration plays an important role in helping regulate body temperature. Because sweating naturally regulates the temperature of your body, you tend to sweat more when exercising, during warm weather and when you're angry, afraid, nervous or embarrassed. Sweat is commonly produced under your arms, feet and in the palms of your hands. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average person is born with 2 million to 4 million sweat glands. Sweat glands are more active in women than in men.
Water Retention
Water retention is the buildup of excessive fluid in your body's circulatory system, tissues and in the cavities of your body. It often occurs as the result of a blockage or blog in your lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system is a network of vessels that helps drain excessive buildup from your body's tissues. Because your body is already made of 70 percent water, excessive water can lead to bloating.
Weight Loss
Sweating off weight through the use of a steam room, sauna, sauna suit or slimming belt doesn't cause you to lose fat. Sweating is, however, beneficial in losing water weight. By excessive sweating, you may be able to lose a couple of pounds in water weight. However, this weight returns immediately after you consume more fluids. If you lose 2 1/2 lbs. in water weight, drinking 2 pints of water causes you to regain this weight. According to Brian Mac, 1 pint of water is approximately equal to 1 1/4 lbs.
Considerations
Sweating off weight is commonly used by people looking to lose a few quick pounds for a special occasion, or by wrestlers looking to ensure they meet their weight class. Sweating is not a safe way of losing weight for the long run. In order to lose weight and keep weight off, you need proper diet and exercise.
Member Comments