Water Doesn't Have to Be Boring
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Plain, boring water packs a powerful punch when it comes to weight loss. But flavored water -- something you'll look forward to drinking -- packs a powerful one-two combination that can't be beat.
Drinking water helps suppress your appetite and helps your body metabolize stored fat. Studies have shown that inadequate hydration can actually cause fat storage to increase.
Burning calories and losing weight creates metabolic waste. Water helps flush out the waste without placing a strain on your kidneys and liver.
If you've ever felt bloated, water retention and constipation may have been to blame. Excess sodium (salt) in your diet causes water retention, and cutting down on the amount of sodium in your food may help. Also fiber, touted for helping relieve constipation, can cause constipation when you are not properly hydrated.
Water helps maintain muscle tone by assisting muscles in their ability to contract, and lubricates your joints. Proper hydration can help reduce muscle and joint soreness when exercising.
Water's the drink with the winning edge, but plain water can get a little boring. To be sure you get enough, try no-calorie, caffeine-free beverages with a pleasing taste. You'll find they work just as well, and you'll drink more since you enjoy them.
Here are some ideas to try:
- Flavored waters such as Dasani and Aquafina
- Flavored seltzer waters such as Talking Rain
- Club soda and diet tonic waters
- Diet ginger ale and other no-calorie, caffeine-free soft drinks
- Caffeine-free iced tea, sweetened with sugar-free sweetener
- Lipton Iced Tea to Go
- Crystal Light On The Go
Or simply add a favorite herb, such as basil or mint, or some small pieces of citrus to your water bottle. Water doesn't have to be boring.
Healthy regards,
Megan Porter, RD
