What Is Water Weight And How Can I Lose It?

The term water weight gets thrown around a lot in the world of weight loss, but what exactly does it mean? 

Water weight is fluid that your body has retained that would otherwise go to your kidneys. It’s completely normal to have water weight, and it happens to everyone, but it’s not permanent. It is, however, one of the top reasons our weight fluctuates! So, what can we do about it?

It might sound strange but up your water intake! Drinking plenty of water signals to your body that it’s okay to let go of the excess fluid, it’s got a lot to do with keeping your hydration levels balanced.

Cut back on salty snacks and processed foods. These kinds of foods dehydrate you so your body clings to whatever fluid it can reach. The same goes for soft drinks and sugary snacks. Aim to be eating fresh fruits and veggies because they can help to balance your sodium levels. 

Get moving! Exercise not only helps you sweat out excess water, but it also helps to boost your metabolism, helping you shed the weight even more. Be sure to rehydrate afterwards to keep your body happy!

When we’re really stressed, our cortisol levels, otherwise known as the stress hormone, heighten. Which can trigger water retention. Make sure you allow yourself some ‘you’ time each day where you can read, watch TV or do whatever will help keep your stress levels down. 

Sleep is important for your general wellbeing and overall health, but it turns out that getting a good quality sleep may actually help decrease water weight! Research has shown that your kidney’s can manage the amount of water and sodium they store better when you’ve had a good night’s rest.