The
Role of Water in Fitness and Weight Loss
The Role of Water in Fat Metabolism
As incredible as it may seem, water is
quite possibly the single most important catalyst in the metabolism of fats.
Studies have shown that a decrease in water consumption may enhance fat
storage, while an increase can actually inhibit fat storage within the body.
Additionally, water helps to suppress the appetite naturally.
The importance of water consumption
may be related to the kidneys inability to function properly without an
adequate supply of water. As a result, the body is not able to filter the blood
properly, resulting in a metabolic overload on the liver. This overload
inhibits one of the liver’s primary functions, which is the oxidation of fatty
acids. If the kidneys are unable to function properly due to a lack of water
consumption, the liver must perform additional work. This reduces the
efficiency of fatty acid in the liver, reducing the body’s ability to burn fat.
Water and Fluid Retention
An increase in the consumption of
water is the most effective treatment for fluid retention. This method of
decreasing fluid retention is successful since the body reacts to fluids and
caloric deprivation in the same manner. As soon as the body senses a decrease
in the availability of water, the hormonal system will alter the fluid balance
and cause the body to retain as much water as possible. Along with fluid
retention, edema (excessive accumulation of fluid) may occur, causing such
symptoms as swollen feet, legs, hands and face.
Although diuretics may temporarily reduce
water retention, they also deplete the body of essential nutrients and weaken
the metabolism. The body perceives diuretics as a threat to its water supply
and will immediately attempt to replace the lost water by removing it from the
intestines and bloodstream. As a result, there is an increase in the
concentration of various salts and solutes in the blood. During this process,
the hypothalamus (the small structure at the base of the brain that regulates
many bodily functions, including appetite and body temperature) senses the
elevated blood concentration and initiates impulses, which stimulate drinking
behavior. Hence, the best method of relieving water retention is to supply the
body with what it needs—plenty of water.
If water retention persists, an excess
supply of sodium within the body may be to blame. The body is only able to
tolerate sodium in limited amounts. The greater the consumption of sodium, the
greater the amount of water necessary to dilute it.
Water and Constipation
Water also aids in the relief of
constipation. When the body is deprived of water, it will attempt to drain
fluids from the colon, causing the stool to harden. When constipation occurs,
the individual may experience a temporary weight loss plateau until regular
bowel function is re-established. Resuming an adequate intake of water will
generally cause normal bowel function to return.
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