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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics

Diet

How Dehydration can Slow Your Fat Loss (And How to Fix It)

You’re working out, eating clean, but ignoring water? That can be a fat loss killer.

Introduction

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Even mild dehydration can lower your resting metabolic rate by 2–3%.

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Metabolism Slows Down

You might be eating when you’re actually just thirsty, which can lead to extra calorie intake.

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Hunger vs. Thirst

Without enough water, you tire faster and burn fewer calories during workouts.

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Poor Workout Performance

Lipolysis (fat burning) also requires water. No hydration means no efficient fat burn.

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Fat Breakdown Needs Water

Dehydration can trigger sugar cravings and mood dips, leading to poor food choices.

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Increased Cravings

Post-workout protein shakes work better when the body is hydrated, and nutrients are also absorbed efficiently.

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Water Helps Protein Work

If your pee is yellow or strong-smelling, you’re already dehydrated. So, increase your water intake.

Dark Urine = Warning

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8–10 glasses of water are the norm. But increase it if you sweat more or drink caffeine.

How Much Water?

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Hydration is about consistency, not quantity at once. Use reminders if needed, your body can’t burn fat in a drought, hydrate like your results depend on it, because they do.

Conclusion

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