Water can help with weight loss

Drinking more water can help with weight loss, according to a new scientific study that has been welcomed by the British Water Cooler Association (BWCA).

Research published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics shows that plain water consumption can control weight and reduce intakes of sugar, sodium and saturated fat. Drinking between one and three glasses more water a day than your usual could lower calorie intake by more than 205 calories.

The researchers, led by Professor Ruopeng An from the University of Illinois, surveyed 18,300 adults, asking them to recall food and drinks consumed over two days that were three to 10 days apart. Water intake was assessed, including fluid from food and drinks other than plain water.

On a daily basis, the participants drank an average of just over four cups of plain water, which accounts for roughly 30% of their total fluid consumption. The average daily calorie intake was 2,157 calories.

The study showed that those who increased their consumption of plain water by one to three cups daily lowered their total energy intake by 68 to 205 calories. Plain water was defined as ‘water from a tap, watercooler, drinking fountain, or bottle”.

The research also showed that people who drank more water consumed five to 19 grams less sugar and seven to 21 grams less cholesterol.

The researchers concluded that the results pointed to the benefit of conducting public health and educational campaigns, as the results were similar across a range of demographics, although men and young or middle-aged adults saw the greatest benefits.

Phillipa Atkinson-Clow, General Manager of BWCA, said: “We often hear about the hydration benefits of plain water in terms of general health, mentally and physically. It comes as no surprise to us that it has now been proven that drinking water can help with weight control too. The sample size was robust and so we hope that those in the UK who are in a position to influence consumption habits, including workplace bosses, will pay heed to these important findings”.

Read the full findings at bit.ly/21Th3Gs