Water weight: Meaning, causes, symptoms, and ways to lose it
What's the story
'Weight'! Can water also add up some kilos? When it comes to weight loss, most people advise drinking more and more water as it naturally suppresses appetite and fosters the burning of extra calories. However, did you know that excess consumption can lead to water retention in the body which causes multiple health issues? And believe us, it's not the best feeling ever.
Context
Here's what our expert says
An adult man is 60% water and an adult woman 55%. Water is found in the blood, the intracellular space, and the extracellular space. While water homeostasis is a tightly controlled process in the body, any water retention adds to the total weight, and this term is known as "the water weight". It can cause fluctuations up to 2 kgs in one's weight.
Meaning
Meaning: Let's understand what water weight exactly is
Water weight occurs when you consume excess water throughout the day, more than your kidneys can flush out. Generally, the human body is capable of retaining 50-60% water, however, any extra fluid leads to water weight. It can temporarily cause your overall body weight to increase by a kilo or so in a single day and make you feel uncomfortable throughout.
Causes
Causes: Many natural and lifestyle issues are to be blamed
The causes behind experiencing water weight are many. They span from natural reasons to lifestyle issues and can happen to anyone, anytime. Among the top causes of this condition include pregnancy, menstruation, hormonal birth control, increased cortisol/stress levels, salty foods, carb-rich offerings, travel, and medicinal reactions. Other factors such as a sedentary lifestyle with no exercise or movement can also lead to it.
Symptoms
Symptoms: Bloating, sleep difficulty, and swelling are its top signs
Bloating is one the most common and top symptoms of water weight. You'd feel as though your belly is filled with water despite only taking a few sips. This also gives rise to other symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, fatigue, and stiff joints. One may also experience swelling in the abdomen area, arms, hands, legs, and feet, and unintended weight fluctuations.
Treatment
Here's how you can get rid of water weight
Exercise regularly, as it causes you to sweat and decrease the amount of water retained in your body. Savor some hydrating foods as they can help your body excrete excess water. Additionally, improve your sleep as it is the time when your system works around healing you. Another important way is to decrease stress and increase electrolytes in your body.