Changing your eating is one of the most effective ways to lose weight, but not drinking enough water could affect your hunger cues.
A fitness expert shared the main food and drink mistakes slimmers make that could be slowing down their results.
Eating less and making healthier choices can be more difficult if you are dehydrated, personal trainer at Geezers Boxing Gloves and Pads Leon Bolmeer pointed out.
He said: “Make sure you stay hydrated, as this will support your metabolism [which speeds up fat loss].
“Many people mistake dehydration for hunger, potentially leading to overeating, so drinking water can reduce cravings, ultimately making a big difference.”
Indeed, a small study titled “The effect of hydration status on appetite and energy intake” monitored 10 male participants on how much they ate with different hydration levels.
Those who were dehydrated noticed “decreased feelings of fullness” when eating the same amount, although it is worth noting they did not necessarily consume more.
When you do eat, the personal trainer shared two types of foods that should not be scrimped on – protein and fibre.
Like drinking water, both types of food help with feelings of fullness, meaning it will be easier to eat less.
Leon continued: “Fibre and protein are important to losing weight, as they are filling and keep cravings in control.
“Foods high in carbohydrates are also a good source of fibre, so there’s no need to cut carbs completely.”
While dieters want to eat less, the expert warned against skipping meals or undereating, as this can lead to overeating later on.
Fibre and protein are vital for weight loss
GETTY
He added: “Cutting out a meal might seem like an ‘easy’ way to manage your calorie intake.
“But going without food for too long can leave you feeling ravenous, which makes it more likely that you will overeat later.
“Skipping meals can actually slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight in the long run.”
For more diet advice, a doctor exclusively shared how smelling four essential oils can help to “suppress your appetite and boost your metabolism”.
