How to Drink Coffee to Lose Water Weight

Retaining water can be uncomfortable and cause a bloated, heavy feeling, which is especially noticed in the stomach area, hands or feet. There are many different causes of water retention, including foods with a high sodium content, processed carbohydrates, high sugar foods, lack of physical activity, some medications and dehydration. For women, premenstrual syndrome, in particular, can cause a significant amount of unpleasant water retention. While many foods can cause water retention, the caffeine in coffee can help relieve it.

Grab another cup of coffee--it can wake you up and also help you lose water weight. (Image: nuiiko/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Drink coffee in the morning. Rather than sugar and cream, which can exacerbate water retention, use a sugar substitute and low-fat milk. The Mayo Clinic reports that coffee is an appetite suppressant and can reduce the amount of food that you desire to eat. A reduced appetite can help you to avoid the tempting foods that cause water retention, such as cookies, cakes, candy, white bread, French fries and pizza. Instead, opt for healthy meal choices that include whole grains, lean protein, fruits, vegetables and healthy poly and monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil.

Step 2

Avoid sugary sodas and high-calorie gourmet coffee drinks. Harvard University reports that most colas contain 10 teaspoons of sugar per 12-oz. serving. Though soda contains caffeine the high sugar content will outweigh the benefits and can actually cause you to retain more water. Stick to regular brewed coffee, straight espresso and regular iced coffee.

Step 3

Workout after consuming caffeine. Fitness Magazine reports that the stimulant affects of caffeine can increase your heart rate and give your energy a boost. Researchers say that caffeine also enhances athletic performance and endurance, which can be a benefit your motivation. The longer workouts will make you sweat more, thus leading to the loss of water weight. Drink a cup of coffee before you go out for a run, to a group fitness class or embark on a strength-training workout. Be cautious, more is not necessarily better. Too much caffeine will make you feel jittery and nervous, which can interfere with your workouts.

Step 4

Consume coffee or tea throughout the day to maximize the water weight-releasing benefits of caffeine. Again be cautious of consuming too much caffeine to avoid becoming jittery or feeling nervous. Try drinking regular brewed coffee in the morning, having iced coffee with lunch and taking a break with soothing hot tea in the afternoon.