Q: How much water must I drink to lose weight?

A: Drinking water will not cause weight loss, so there is no water recommendation for weight loss. However, water is needed for nearly every function in the body and so staying well hydrated is very important.

Water is needed for good blood volume, cardiac output and delivery of oxygen to working muscles. During exercise, staying well hydrated also decreases the risk of muscle cramping, regulates core body temperature and gets rid of unwanted waste.

Use thirst as a guide to getting enough fluid and try to drink mostly plain water. Aim for at least four glasses of water per day and then add more water or other fluids, like herbal tea, according to preference or thirst.

If you struggle to get plain water down, try flavour your water by adding orange, lemon segments, sliced berries or fresh mint leaves.