It’s a new year and with that comes the common new year’s resolution of getting back in shape and losing weight. Now grant it some people are able to make the change and stick with that new year’s resolution. However for many they start out with good intentions but shortly fall back into old habits, unable to truly make that change. The excuses (er reasons) why so many fail in fulfilling their new year’s resolution are endless, but a recent study may provide some extra help.
For years we have been encouraged to drink more water when dieting, however the reason why was based on little evidence. Recently though a group of scientists from Virginia Tech published a study about the effectiveness of drinking water when dieting. In the study people were put into 2 groups and received a calorie-restricted diet for 12 weeks. One group was instructed to drink 500 ml. of water before each meal, while the other group was instructed to drink nothing. The results were a 44% greater weight loss in the group that drank water. Even more astounding is that the weight loss could not be attributed solely on reduced calorie intake since both groups consumed the same amount of calories during the 12-weeks.
This study definitely confirms what most already know. If you want to lose weight start drinking more water.
The health benefits of drinking water are well documented. Yet at my Egoscue clinic in San Diego I would say that over 90% of the people who walk through the door are chronically dehydrated, what’s even worse most people aren’t even aware they are dehydrated. Our body is a magnificent machine with all kinds of check and balances and warning signals. When the body is dehydrated there are many warning signals that are sent out:
- Heartburn
- Dyspepsia
- Rheumatoid Pain
- Back pain
- Migraine
- Leg pain when walking
- Fibro myalgia
- Colitis
- Angina
- Morning sickness
If you want to learn more the health benefits of water check out this book
Your Body’s Many Cries for Water by: Dr. Batmanghelidj M.D.
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