Do You Lose More Weight When Sweating?

People are always looking for the best, easiest, and fastest way to lose weight. Thousands of fad diets, weight-loss products and other methods to cause increased sweating have seen their time in the spotlight, only to fade into obscurity. There are a few safe and long-lasting methods for weight loss. The best way to lose weight is to focus on eating a healthful diet and getting adequate amounts of exercise.

Sweating

Designed to rid the body of excess heat, sweating works through evaporation. Blood near the surface is cooled and then circulates through the body, thus reducing core temperature. This process is dependent upon the air surrounding the body to be dry enough to evaporate the perspiration. Sweat is not an accurate measurement of exertion, since some people sweat less than others.

Weight Loss

To lose weight, you must use up fat stores. To lose 1 lb., you must burn off 3,500 calories more than what you have eaten. Exercise, daily activities, and basic life functions such as eating and breathing all burn calories. The best way to burn calories is to combine aerobic exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming with a weightlifting program. According to the American Council of Exercise, in 30 minutes, a 150-lb. person burns 272 calories while running 5 mph, 136 calories while cycling 5.5 miles per hour, and 340 calories while swimming vigorously. Weight training at a moderate intensity burns approximately 102 calories in half an hour.

Inducing Sweat

For many years, some people have operated under the belief that the more they sweat, the more weight they will lose. So sweat suits -- plastic, nonbreathable suits -- saunas, water pills, and hot yoga studios are used to attempt to rid the body of as much sweat as possible during a workout. The science behind this theory, however, is flawed. The weight lost during sweating is water weight, and is replaced as soon as you rehydrate.

Caution

The danger of inducing sweat arises when extensive exercise is undertaken and dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance occurs. An electrolyte imbalance is when an individual sweats out too much salt and not enough is replenished. Always consult your health care professional before beginning a new diet or exercise program. Lose weight at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. per week for the best chances of keeping it off.