Yes, drinking water can help burn a small amount of calories.
How Does Water Help Burn Calories?
While water isn't a magic weight-loss solution, some research suggests it can contribute to calorie expenditure.
The Science Behind It
- Increased Energy Expenditure: A 2014 study indicated that drinking water can increase your energy expenditure. In this study, 12 people who drank 500 mL of cold and room temperature water experienced a 2-3% increase in calorie burning in the 90 minutes after drinking the water.
- Thermogenesis: The process of your body heating up the ingested water might be one reason why calorie burn increases. This is especially true for cold water, as the body must work to bring it up to your internal temperature.
Water Temperature and Calorie Burn
| Water Temperature | Impact on Calorie Burn |
|---|---|
| Cold Water | May require more energy to heat up. |
| Room Temperature Water | Still increases energy expenditure. |
Practical Implications
Here are some practical ways to utilize this information:
- Hydrate Regularly: Drinking water throughout the day can provide a minor boost to your metabolism.
- Drink Water Before Meals: This can help you feel fuller and potentially reduce overall calorie consumption.
- Substitute Water for High-Calorie Drinks: Replacing sugary drinks with water eliminates many empty calories.
Important Considerations
- Not a Major Calorie Burner: While helpful, water is a supplement to, not a replacement for, diet and exercise. The calorie burn associated with drinking water is relatively small.
- Individual Variation: The amount of extra calories burned can vary from person to person.
Conclusion
While the increase in calories burned from drinking water is minor, it’s a simple and healthy way to help boost your metabolism. Combine drinking water with a balanced diet and exercise for best results.
