People trying to lose weight are often advised to drink more water. But a researcher at the University of Alabama debunks the theory saying that there is not enough evidence that shows drinking gallons of water will aid in weight loss.
Nutrition expert Dr Beth Kitchin says just one study shows people who drink loads of water burned a few calories. "I'm not saying drinking water isn't good - but only one study showed people who drank more water burned a few extra calories, and it was only a couple of extra calories a day," she said in a press release.
"There is very little evidence that drinking water promotes weight loss - it is one of those self-perpetuating myths," she added.
It is widely accepted that drinking at least eight glasses of water every day helps flush toxins from the body. But Dr Kitchin says, even that is a myth.
"Yes, people do need to get fluids - but it does not have to be water. There's no evidence that it melts away fat or makes you feel fuller, so if you don't like water it's OK," she said.
However, Dr Kitchin has alternatives to keep the body hydrated. Drink other fluids such as green tea, coffee and juice.
"People think coffee doesn't count, but actually it does," she said. "When you drink coffee, your body is retaining much of that fluid - especially for people who are habituated to drinking caffeine, as the body adapts, resulting in a reduced loss of fluids."
Well, we doubt that coffee is hydrating for the body because a number of studies are out there which argue that it can lead to dehydration. And just few researches support the argument that moderate consumption of coffee can hydrate one's body.
Dr Kitchin said only one way to lose weight is to consume fewer calories. She advises people to eat more fruit, vegetables and soups.
