The MakeMeThinner Support Forum

[SueInSLO]

I copied this from a post on another diet board I frequent. I thought some might find it interesting.

Running on empty?
If you're not drinking enough water - at least 2 litres a day - here's how your body is being affected:


Your weight loss will slow right down. This is because about 2.5 litres of water is naturally lost through daily bodily functions such as going to the loo and sweating. If you don't replenish this water you'll soon become dehydrated, and your metabolism will be among the first to shut down. So, if you're dieting and you can't seem to shift the weight, perhaps it's because you aren't drinking enough water.


Your digestion will suffer. Water is essential for digestion and elimination. Poor digestion means you won't be absorbing the goodness from your food. Your body in turn will send up signals (read: cravings) for food that has minerals your body lacks.


You'll feel 'fake' hunger. When dehydrated, your body sends out the same signals that prompt you to eat and you may end up answering that response with food. Water will not only curb those hunger pangs, but it will fill you up. Fitness trainer Bob Greene recommends drinking a tall glass of water half an hour before a meal to fill the void and prevent overeating (For more information, check out Get With the Program, Getting Real About Your Weight, Health and Emotional Well-Being by Bob Greene, Simon and Schuster, £15)


You won't get the full benefit of exercise. Your metabolism increases with exercise, and as we mentioned earlier, water is essential to maximise your metabolism. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your workout.

How much H2O should you drink? The British Dietetic Association suggests adults drink 2.5 litres (that's a little over five pints) of fluids a day, which can include fruit juices, squash and weak tea and coffee. This amount is recommended for maintaining your daily fluid requirements. If your aim is to lose weight, add another 750ml to that and you'll aid your metabolism and help create new muscle weight.


You know you're drinking enough water if your urine is clear and odourless (not including your first urination of the morning).

Sue