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Q&A: Should You Water Down Meals for Weight Loss?
Aaron Jacobs / flickr
Q: Will drinking water before and during my meals really help me lose weight? - Sarah, Las Vegas, NV
A: Drinking lots of water before and during a meal is a common dieting trick, but it isn't necessary to waterlog yourself at meal time.
While hydration can help you regulate your appetite—allowing yourself to become dehydrated may force your body to confuse thirst with hunger—the key is to drink water consistently throughout the day.
Aim for 0.5 to 1.0 ounces of fluid per pound of bodyweight per day, and drink a glass of water before your meal to ensure that you're not thirsty.
More importantly, look at hydration as an ongoing habit instead of as a trick to lose weight. Hydrating properly combined with eating clean and eating often will help you maintain a healthy weight.
About The Author
Amanda Carlson-Phillips – Amanda Carlson-Phillips is the Vice President of Nutrition and Research of Athletes' Performance. As a registered dietitian, she has provided educational seminars and individual counseling to a variety of professional and elite sports organizations.
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