Does filling up with water promote weight loss?

Question
I have been trying to lose weight. in addition to diet and exercise I am adding in 4 L of water as well as 4 C of green tea a day.

I tend to drink alot of this at night. My mom is concerned but it keeps my snacking at bay. Is it unhealthy to get in all of your water and tea in 2-3 hours? I dont force myself to drink if i can tell I have had too much (bloated full stomach) I drink at a comfortable pace, but i usually just forget to drink these things throughout the day.

Is this okay?

Answer
Hello,

Watching your portion sizes and exercising are excellent ways to lose weight. Staying well hydrated throughout the day is important.  The timing of your liquid consumption is not problematic unless you are getting up several times a night to use the bathroom. If your sleep is being disrupted this can be detrimental to your health.  I also would like to point out that green tea (unless it is decaf) has caffeine. This may be another factor to consider when drinking the tea in the evening.  If you are not drinking to the point of discomfort and your sleep is not an issue then drink these non-caloric beverages as you see fit. However, it would be preferable to drink periodically throughout the day as opposed to having all of the liquids during a short time span.  I also would recommend including some other ways to distract yourself from mindless snacking.  How about cooking a healthy dinner, going for a walk, reading or scratching something off of your "to-do" list?  Keep a water bottle with you in the car, your bag or on your desk. Also, don't get distracted by the water and stay focused on your goal which is to lose weight.  What you are eating is far more important than how many cups of water and/or tea you drink per day.

I hope this answers your question and I wish you good health.

1. Prev:Fish Oil
2. Next:Overnight supplements/ shakes