There’s nothing better than a refreshing glass of water! You know from class that I recommend you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day – that’s approximately 1½ to 2 litres. But do you know why? Here are some fascinating facts to explain why – they may surprise you:

  1. Water suppresses the appetite naturally and helps the body metabolise stored fat.

Studies have shown that a decrease in water intake causes fat deposits to increase, while an increase in water intake can actually reduce fat deposits. The kidneys can’t function properly without enough water. When they don’t work to capacity, some of their load is dumped on to the liver. One of the liver’s primary functions is to metabolise stored fat into useable energy for the body. But, if the liver has to do some of the kidney’s work, it can’t operate at full throttle. As a result it metabolises less fat so more fat remains stored in the body and weight loss slows down.

  1. Drinking water is the best treatment for fluid retention

When the body gets less water, it sees this as a threat to survival and begins to hold on to every drop. Water is stored outside the cells. This shows up as swollen feet, legs and hands. The best way to overcome the problem of water retention is to give the body what it needs – plenty of water. This way stored water in the body will be released.

  1. Water helps rid the body of waste

When you are losing weight, the body has a lot more toxins and waste to get rid of – after all, all that metabolised fat has to go somewhere! Drinking plenty of water will help to flush out that waste.

  1. Water can help relieve constipation

Water keeps the food you eat moving along through your intestines and keeps your intestines smooth and flexible too. When the body doesn’t get enough water, it draws the water it needs from the colon (large intestine) – the result? Constipation. But when a person drinks enough water, the colon is fully hydrated and normal bowel functions usually return.

How much water should I drink?

On average, a person should drink eight 227g/8oz glasses of water per day. However, if you are overweight, you need one additional glass for every 25 pounds of excess weight.

Water should preferably be cold because cold water is absorbed into the system more quickly than warm water. And some evidence suggests that drinking cold water can help burn calories! If plain water is just too plain for you, try adding a slice of fresh lemon or lime or orange to zip it up. I love adding a splash of ginger cordial which is really satisfying as the weather gets colder – it can even be served warm and is just like a hug in a mug!

Get into the habit of drinking your water every day – it’s the NUMBER 1 weight loss tip from lots of Slimtone members. So grab yourself a fancy glass and make sure you keep it topped up all day, every day!

Cheers, m’dears!
Marie x

P.S. Fancy joining us on an exclusive Slimetone weekend to Champneys? Our 2024 dates are now available – click here for full details.