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Alba Otero
Writer“Observe, listen, and reflect” is my journalistic mantra. This philosophy guides me daily and ensures I produce quality journalism. My restlessness has led me explore new areas, such as sustainability and the energy transition, which are crucial to our future. In addition, I’ve also dabbled in street photography, an art that allows me to capture the essence of journalism in action.
Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
With summer approaching, many people are eager to lose weight quickly. Among the myriad of “miracle solutions,” one piece of advice stands out for its simplicity: drinking a glass of water before each meal. Although it seems straightforward, is this just another detox myth, or is there some truth behind it?
A glass of water. Drinking a glass of water before eating seems like a simple premise. Online sources suggest that this practice can promote satiety and encourage mindful eating. The theory is that filling the stomach with water can reduce feelings of hunger. However, Robert Shmerling of Harvard Medical School cautionsthat human physiology rarely follows such simple rules.
The science behind this idea. Shmerling explains that drinking water before meals can create a slight feeling of fullness by activating the stomach’s mechanoreceptors. However, the effect is both limited and temporary.
Some studies indicate that older adults might benefit from this practice. Evidence suggests that those on a low-calorie diet who drink water before meals may lose more weight over a 12-week period than those who don’t.
However, there’s no robust evidence of long-term effects in larger populations. Moreover, other associated theories, such as the claim that cold water burns calories through thermogenesis, have been disproven in recent studies.
Consensus. The focus isn’t solely on drinking more water, but rather on what you choose to stop drinking. Replacing soft drinks, energy drinks, and alcohol with water can significantly impact weight loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, this simple change reduces total calorie intake without requiring conscious effort.
Additionally, staying well-hydrated enhances physical performance, improves exercise endurance, and aids in recovery. This isn’t because water directly causes weight loss, but because it supports a more active and healthier lifestyle.
The culture of easy and quick fixes. The popularity of these kinds of tricks reflects a societal desire for quick, simple, and effortless solutions to a complex issue like weight control. In a society that obsessively values thinness, especially among young women, so-called life hacks promising immediate results are on the rise. More concerningly, many of these tips may appear “healthy” but actually conceal eating disorders.
It’s just water. In an environment filled with “quick fixes,” Shmerling points out that if you think it works for you, there’s no harm. However, you should remember that no glass of water can replace a balanced diet.
Image | Engin Akyurt
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