Why Water is Wonderful for Weight Loss and Health

Water, water everywhere - and most of us aren't into drinking it. Why sip boring, plain water when you can get fizzy with a soda, get buzzed with a latte or get energized with an energy drink? Reality check: There are an ocean's worth of reasons for stepping away from that soda and letting go of your latte, as well as easing back on that energy drink! From weight loss to health, discover why WebMD's experts urge you to drink more water.

Weight Loss
Boost your metabolism with water and reduce your hunger. By sipping a glass of water before each meal, you'll naturally eat less and feel more satisfied. Best choice: Icy cold water, which causes your body to burn more calories to warm it up.

If you usually drink three sodas, two coffee drinks and an energy drink each day, swapping them for water could slash your calories dramatically to supercharge your weight loss.

Energize
Do you reach for a sugary soda or coffee drink because you're tired? It could be dehydration. And drinking caffeine actually has the reverse effect of boosting your energy. Instead, sipping water can help your heart function more effectively, while helping your blood carry oxygen to your cells.

Carry a water bottle to the gym, and sip at intervals during and after your workout.

Stress Less
Did you know that 70% to 80% of your brain tissue consists of water? If you're thirsty, you're dehydrated and that can make you feel stressed physically and emotionally.

Even during the busiest days at work, it's important to take water breaks regularly.

Muscle Up
Do you ever suffer from painful muscle cramps? Drinking water helps reduce the likelihood of those cramps. In addition, staying on top of your water needs helps you lift more weights for a longer period of time.

Take a sports bottle with you and sip frequently.

Younger Skin
Dry skin and fine lines can look you make much older than your chronological age. Sip water to keep your skin cells hydrated.

In addition, water flushes your body of toxins and helps you have glowing skin by enhancing your circulation.

Digestion
Do you suffer from tummy trouble? Stay regular by drinking lots of water.

Although fiber is important, eating too much fiber and insufficient water can make matters worse. So when you eat that high fiber cereal in the morning, drink a glass of water to wash it down.

Kidney Stones
By drinking enough water, you can help reduce the risk of painful kidney stones. Because water dilutes the minerals in your urine that result in solid crystals (known as kidney stones), it's important to reduce your risk with enough of that liquid gold: water!

How Much?
Depending on how much you exercise or sweat, you may need additional water on certain days. Make sure to be aware of your water needs: When you get thirsty, you are already slightly dehydrated.

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