In this post we’ll unpack all you need to know about Water Weight, defining exactly what it is, the science behind how it works, how to minimise it and more.
What Is Water Weight?
Water Weight (WW), also known as subcutaneous fluid, refers to the mixture of water and ions (charged particles) that the body stores under the skin for emergency use.
What many people perceive to be fat around their abdominal muscles may not be fat at all. Instead, it may be fluid being deposited in the lower abdominal region which masks the well-sculpted muscle that lies underneath.
The Science Behind Water Weight
The body needs water to maintain its functions ― in other words, to survive. In fact, 50-70% of entire bodyweight is water.
As a result, the same way the body has a natural mechanism for storing excess fat for times of need, is the same way the body has a natural mechanism for storing excess water and ions for times of need. It is this fluid that we refer to as Water Weight.
How To Minimise Water Weight
For those looking to minimise their Water Weight as a way to maximise the appearance of their muscles, there are a number of strategies they can adopt which we’ll detail below.
- More Water – Drinking more water causes you to release more water through excretion, which in turn reduces WW.
- More Sweat – Sweating is a natural mechanism the body uses to regulates its temperature, which in turn reduces WW.
- More Fibre – Fibre cleanses the intestinal tract, keeping things moving smoothly, whilst aiding in the removal of excess fluid.
- Less Salt – The more salt you consume, the more water your body retains. The less salt you consume, the less water your body retains.
- Less Carbs – Carbohydrates are stored in the body along with water. The less carbs you consume, the less water your body retains.
- Less Solid Food – Reducing solid foods, which can add weight and cause abdominal bloating, is another way to emphasise the appearance of muscles.
Summary
Water Weight refers to the excess water that the body retains instead of excreting through urination. It is a natural mechanism the body uses to survive.
Strategies for reducing WW include drinking more water, sweating more, eating more fibre, consuming less salt, consuming less solid foods and eating less carbs.
