Does drinking water really boost your metabolism

Water is one of the basic needs of human beings, essential for survival. But the question is, is drinking water associated with boosting the body’s metabolism? You might have heard that consuming an adequate amount of water helps to burn calories, but let’s explore the mechanism and reality behind this!
Body’s metabolism: Metabolism includes the chemical reactions that are undergoing in the body cells for the living organisms to survive. The body’s metabolic reactions, may it be anabolic or catabolic, help to convert the food we eat into energy, balance the body’s temperature and even assist in waste removal.

Water-Induced Thermogenesis: Drinking water throughout the day is a great way to give a boost to the body’s metabolism and this process is termed as water-induced thermogenesis. The body’s sympathetic nervous system’s functioning gets improved and this aids in the body’s fat oxidation reactions and energy expenditure. Researchers have proven that daily water intake of 1.5 liters leads to a reduction in body fat in overweight individuals, possibly due to an increase in calorie burning and reduced appetite.

Fat metabolism and hydration: Water also plays a crucial role in fat metabolism. Dehydration reduces lipolysis, the process of breaking down fat for energy. Proper hydration ensures that the kidneys and liver function optimally, supporting the body’s ability to burn fat efficiently.

Appetite control and hydration: While metabolism is directly influenced by water intake, another way water helps with weight management is through appetite control. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks reduces overall calorie intake, further supporting weight loss and metabolic health.

Cold water and calorie burning: It has been scientifically proven that drinking cold water burns extra calories because the body must work harder to warm it up. Approximately 40% of the thermogenic effect of water comes from heating it to body temperature. However, the overall impact is relatively small, burning an extra 5–10 calories per glass of cold water.

Conclusion: Yes, drinking water can temporarily boost metabolism through thermogenesis, support fat metabolism, and aid in appetite control. However, its effect is modest compared to other metabolic factors such as diet, exercise, and muscle mass. While staying hydrated is essential for overall health, drinking water alone will not cause significant weight loss unless combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Contributed by: Ritu Khaneja Therapeutic Nutritionist & Dietitian