Those who want to lose weight, such as strength athletes in the cutting phase, are advised to drink plenty of water. But why?

1. THIRST QUENCHER WITHOUT CALORIES

The biggest advantage of water, from a bodybuilding perspective, is that it’s a good thirst quencher that doesn’t contain any calories. High-calorie drinks, such as soft drinks, fruit juices, and alcohol, are less filling than solid calories. You’re ingesting hundreds of unnecessary calories through fluids. Therefore, it’s best to drink water.

Remember: don’t drink calories if you want to lose weight (and in our opinion, don’t drink them at all). Drink water instead, supplemented with coffee or tea if desired.

2. EASIER WEIGHT LOSS THANKS TO WATER

A systematic review of 18 studies examined the health effects of increased water intake. The most notable health benefit was weight loss. Drinking more before and during meals helps you feel full faster, resulting in lower energy intake and weight loss.

Most studies compared usual water intake with the addition of one to two glasses of water per meal.

Besides making you feel less hungry, drinking water can also speed up your metabolism, especially if you drink cold water. However, this effect is small and doesn’t have a substantial impact on weight loss.

3. OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS

Drinking water is essential for overall good health: it removes toxins, regulates body temperature, prevents fatigue, improves concentration, keeps skin hydrated, and supports bowel movements. It can also prevent headaches and dehydration.

ADVICE

The most important advice for us cutting bodybuilders is to consume water instead of liquid calories. Drinking more water than you’d like can also contribute to a feeling of fullness. Therefore, be sure to drink a glass of water before every meal.

Drink at least 2.5 liters of water per day, excluding tea and coffee.