Water Retention and Weight Loss

CrazyTrackLady

I'm just curious, so all posts/responses welcome here.

I see a lot of answers to the question: "Why am I not losing weight?" that center around water retention. It always seems to be women responding to other women assuring them or suggesting that their "inability to lose weight might be due to water retention." I rarely see this said to men.

Is it really possible that water contributes THAT much to weight loss? I understand that water retention does and can occur during the female monthly cycle. However, I've never felt that I am unable to lose weight due to water retention. I've been bloated, gassy, etc, but as for water -- I drink it, I eliminate it.

I do know that high levels of sodium can cause water retention. I get that. But, in the grand scheme of things, I think that it's somehow an ambiguous and inconclusive theory. Again, MY situation and circumstances don't allow ME to use it as an excuse. I don't eat much sodium on a daily basis.

I'm on the cusp of menopause, and I think my inability to lose weight is more hormonal and metabolic in nature. Perhaps my thyroid activity needs to be measured. Or, my estrogen levels are way off. I don't know.

I would suggest to women that, instead of going straight to "water retention", that instead you consider other issues, and see an endocrinologist or doctor. Perhaps it IS something that needs a further look and actual treatment other than "just drink more water to flush out your system,"

THOUGHTS?

caribear1984

I don't think people are trying to imply that water retention itself actually keeps you from losing weight. When I've seen it brought up, it's been because the OP is concerned that they're gaining weight despite eating in a deficit and exercising. Usually it is women who bring this up, but I have seen a few men ask this too. It is usually brought up as a likely explanation for an otherwise unwarranted increase in scale weight, because it can be caused by things like excess sodium, sugar, and new or increased exercise. If you are using the scale to validate your efforts, it can be demotivating and discouraging to see the scale go up. That is why, IMO, it is discussed here so often.

dewsmom78

I have lost 4 inches and about 2% body fat in 2 months, however I have not lost a pound on the scale. Some days I'm up 2 lbs. I'm guessing it's water weight. I have been lifting and doing cardio and everyone on here tells me your muscles retain extra water to repair and rebuild them.

It is very frustrating to not see the scale drop after so much hard work, but I have no other explanation other than water.

pluckabee

Usually this is offered if the person worried is experiencing short term gains or stalls.

The boards get many many many many many posts screaming "HELP!! I GAINED 2lbs OVERNIGHT/IN A WEEK!"

Such short term gains are nothing to panic about and really are probably water. Longer term stalls or gains over months wouldn't be water and would warrant more action or investigation