The Obesity Project

I’ve blogged about this really terrific and supportive website, welove2lose.com.  There’s no charge – and no catch – just become a member and enjoy warm support and camaraderie.

Welove2lose.com has discussion forums, photos and videos to inspire, awe and amaze you.  I am totally inspired by the stories of success and trying that I find here.

Visit welove2lose.com – it’s really a nice place.

Incidentally, I know it’s not a real “weight loss program”, but it’s something that might help and that’s alright with me!

Just a few days ago I heard Nancy Snyderman of the Today Show talking about water and weight loss.  Just about every eating program I have tried says to drink eight glasses of water per day. although there is usually a lack of clarity as to what constitutes “a glass”.  A few break down and ask one to drink at least eight glasses of liquid per day.

Here’s the thing, according to the Mayo Clinic, (who I consider to be a trusted source) one needs 8 to 9 cups of water per day.  A cup is eight ounces, so it’s less than you think.  Just  measure out eight ounces of water and you’ll see that it’s not that much. I usually drink a twelve ounce glass with every meal. (I love cold water, so I hope no one starts to attack the cold/room temperature subject any time soon!)

Now, back to Nancy.  If you don’t want to click on her video clip, she is recommending one drink two glasses of water before each meal.  I like this idea and it may really help some folks.  With deference to Nancy, I think I will opt for drinking about six to eight ounces before my meal, and keep the glass during the meal, for a total of two (plus a bit).  Some folks don’t like to drink while they eat – it’s totally a matter of preference.

A hidden water benefit for dieters…

Besides the fact that water replaces moisture and fluids that are expelled from our bodies each day, etcetra, I would like to point out one other thing regarding water that hits on an unpleasant by-product on The Plan, as well as many other eating regimens that might be higher in protein.  That is – halitosis.

Drinking plenty of water might not be the “end all” when it come to fighting off bad breath, yet it helps to hydrate the mouth and wash away particles in the mouth that bacteria use to live on, the primary source of bad breath, or halitosis. One source I found recommended rinsing the mouth after meals, even if with water (sorry, but I won’t note sources if they’re only really pushing their mouthwash or something like that – it won’t help you loss weight!).

Bottom line:

If you’re freaking out about the water thing, just stop! There’s no need to worry since there’s a good chance you might be drinking almost that much already. If you don’t think you’re drinking enough, drop the sodas – even if they’re diet!  Just don’t go “cold turkey” on yourself if you’re a big “soda junkie” – go slow.  But I promise, after a while you really won’t miss them that much.