Does drinking more water make you gain weight or lose weight?

Generally, drinking more water does not lead to weight gain and actually supports weight management. However, excessive water intake combined with poor habits may cause temporary swelling that creates the illusion of weight gain. If in doubt, it is recommended to rehydrate scientifically and reasonably. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Water itself contains no calories and cannot be converted into body fat. On the contrary, it boosts metabolism, helps eliminate metabolic waste, increases satiety, and reduces food intake during meals—indirectly supporting weight loss. It is an important supportive measure in weight management.

However, consuming large amounts of water in a short time or ingesting excessive sugar and salt while drinking may lead to fluid retention, resulting in facial or lower limb edema. This can create a false impression of "gaining weight." This condition is not due to actual fat accumulation and can be relieved by adjusting water intake and dietary patterns.

For daily hydration, follow the principle of drinking small amounts frequently to avoid overhydration at once. Prioritize plain boiled water and avoid sugary beverages. Adjust your water intake according to your activity level; generally, 1,500–2,000 milliliters per day is appropriate. Persistent edema should prompt evaluation for other underlying health conditions.