H2-uh-Oh: Water and Fatburning

Now it’s getting hotter (unless I’ve just jinxed it – sorry if its raining tomorrow!) I thought I’d post an article to shed some light on the importance of water and how it can actually help your body to burn unwanted fat – yes really!

If we think back to our biology lessons, we may recall learning how water is involved in absolutely every bodily function. The body therefore interprets dehydration pretty much as a state of shock. This consequently doesn’t do our hearts any favours - they are put under unnecessary pressure when we are not hydrated as our cells draw water from our bloodstreams.

Being dehydrated also means two other negative things are likely to occur. The first is that we are more likely to retain water, which is the body’s way of attempting to re-hydrate us and never fun for anyone especially when we are planning on actually fitting into our clothes!

The second is that being dehydrated can actually hinder our fat burning efforts! And here’s how: A key function of the liver is to metabolise fat for energy. When our kidneys are deprived of water, they rely on the liver to help them out. If the liver has to do this, it means it’s not working to its full potential – which ultimately leads to more fat storage!

Sometimes we can even misinterpret thirst as hunger and end up eating more than we need to when we really just need a glass of water! Now if this isn’t reason enough to drink up then I don’t know what is.

If you’re not a fan of water for whatever reason, you can make it slightly more interesting by adding a slice of lemon or lime (both full of antioxidants) or a load of ice (which your body will actually burn calories having to warm up) or both.

If you think you’re likely to forget to drink up during the day, then start carrying a refillable bottle wherever you go and when you get home make sure you get yourself a glass and keep it close by (and at least half full!) at all times. You’ll find this will eventually become a new habit that you do automatically - and that your body will thank you for. So please keep hydrated and H2O happy!

If you have found this article useful please feel free to pass it on to anyone else you feel might benefit from it.

‘Til next time, stay focused and keep up the good work! 
Gen x