If you are attempting to lose weight, a technique to drop the pounds may include increasing your intake of cold water. Although you may have heard cold water causes you to burn more calories, the temperature of the water is inconsequential. The weight loss derives from reducing your overall daily calorie intake.
Expert Insight
According to an August 2010 study conducted through the Institute for Public Health and Water Research, researchers found that drinking two glasses of water before a meal reduced calorie intake by 75 to 90 at the subsequent meal. After 12 weeks, dieters lost an average of 5 more lbs than subjects who did not increase their water intake. The water was consumed approximately 20 to 30 minutes prior to meals.
Size
You may have a hard time differentiating between thirst and hunger. Instead of consuming food when you think you are hungry, try instead to drink a glass of cold water. Stay hydrated by drinking approximately 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Increase intake during periods of intense exercise and on hot summer days.
Considerations
Cold water can be substituted in place of high calorie beverages to reduce body weight. For instance, a 20 oz soda contains approximately 227 calories, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cutting out two of these sodas each day and replacing with zero calorie water shaves 454 calories from your daily caloric intake. Other high calorie drinks to avoid include fruit punch, apple juice, sweetened iced tea, coffee drinks with whole milk, sports drinks and lemonade.
Types
The type of water you consume to lose weight does not necessarily need to be cold. Even foods made up of mostly water will help you reach your diet goals. Water dense food options include melon, celery, lettuce, cucumbers and soups. Consuming one of these food items before your meal will reduce the number of calories you eat at that meal.
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