Diet & Fitness 
Eat RightWater and weight loss
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Water and weight loss

by Dr Wynnie Chan

question
Is carbonated mineral water better for you than still water, and does drinking eight glasses of water a day really help you to lose weight? Also, I eat a lot of carbohydrates (bagels, bread, cereal and pasta), but even though they are low in fat I still can't seem to shift the pounds. Should I cut back on my carbs?

answer
There's no difference in the caloric value of carbonated or still mineral water and, yes, you should be drinking eight glasses of water a day. This is important to keep you hydrated and regulate your body processes. Carbohydrates (especially wholegrain versions) are low fat and excellent sources of starch, which will fill you up without piling on the calories. If you use toppings, be sure and steer clear of fattening butter and spreads, which can add extra calories and fat and sabotage your weight loss plan. As long as you are basing your diet on 50 per cent carbohydrates, 35 per cent fat and 15 per cent protein, you shouldn't have to cut down your carb intake.

Building in an exercise regime will also help you shift unwanted pounds. Check out The Shape Up Challenge , our free eight-week healthy eating and fitness programme, to get on track. You can find out more about it by looking at posts from others who have experienced the Challenge at our Shape Up message board.

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