Study: Drinking Water Before Meals = Weight Loss

A new study from the England’s University of Birmingham suggests drinking a pint of water before meals is the secret to losing weight. Researchers report that obese adults who consumed a pint of tap water before meals lost about 9.5 lbs. over a 12 week period.

Obesity causes several health issues, which lead to a much higher risk of long-term health care later in life. These include heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, some cancers, osteoarthritis, and breathing issues like asthma and sleep apnea.

The study participants were encouraged to drink tap water instead of sparkling water, sodas, or sweetened drinks that were not allowed as part of the study.

 "The beauty of these findings is in the simplicity."

"Just drinking a pint of water, three times a day, before your main meals may help reduce your weight.”

"When combined with brief instructions on how to increase your amount of physical activity and on a healthy diet, this seems to help people to achieve some extra weight loss - at a moderate and healthy rate.” 

"It's something that doesn't take much work to integrate into our busy everyday lives." 

Dr. Helen Parretti, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) clinical lecturer at the University of Birmingham

The research is published in the Journal of Obesity.

Water and Overall Health

Drinking water also helps our overall health. The CDC says that drinking water prevents dehydration. Dehydration can cause unclear thinking and mood changes. Dehydration can also cause your body to overheat and lead to constipation and kidney stones.

CDC lists the benefits of drinking water for your body and health:

Water helps your body:

• Keep a normal temperature
• Lubricate and cushion joints
• Protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues
• Get rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements

Read these tips about how to drink more water and other healthy drinks - Water and Healthier Drinks | Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity | CDC.

Aging and Water Consumption

Drinking more water is good for everyone; however, the amount of fluid in our bodies decreases as we get older. The National Institute of Aging (NIA) says many older adults lose some sense of thirst as they get older. Plus, seniors tend to take more medications, and many of these drugs work best with more fluids in your body.

NIA offers these tips for getting more fluids every day:

• Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water or other fluids.
• Take sips of water, milk, or juice between bites during meals.
• Add liquids throughout the day.
• Drink a full glass of water when you take a pill.
• Have a glass of water before you exercise.

Read more from the NIA by clicking here.

This water intake calculator can help you or a family member keep track of how much water you are taking in each day - Water Intake Calculator – Fitness Volt

Drink More Water - Lose Weight - Enjoy Better Health

Getting into the habit of drinking more water will benefit you and your older family members. Being proactive with your health will benefit you today and as you get older. 

Longevity has its challenges, financially and with your health. The costs and burdens of aging affect your income, assets, lifestyle, and legacy. Being proactive with the consequences of aging will also benefit your future retirement.

According to experts, about half of us who reach age 65 will need long-term health care. The costs of professional caregivers are growing quickly. Family caregivers are not prepared or trained for this job, which interferes with their careers and other family responsibilities. The consequences impact your cash flow and your family. 

While water will improve your health, it won't stop aging. Aging happens, and we need long-term health care due to illnesses, accidents, or the consequences of longevity. 

Long-Term Care Insurance is a solution many American families look toward in order to access quality care in the future in all settings, including at home. When you own an LTC policy, you own a solution. You also help your loved ones by giving them the time to be family instead of becoming caregivers. 

Most people obtain coverage in their 50s. Take a drink of water and start planning.