Below is a detailed look at the science behind detox water’s health claims. A few are valid, even if they are a little exaggerated in some instances.
Helps With Weight Loss
Drinking water may help you lose weight, and this applies to detox water too. Water has been shown to temporarily raise your metabolic rate, so you burn more calories.
Studies have shown that drinking 17 oz (half a liter) of water can increase your metabolic rate by up to 30% for about an hour (
In fact, people who drink the recommended amount of water as part of a weight loss program tend to lose more weight than those who don’t (
One study found that overweight adults who drank 17 oz (half a liter) of water before their meals lost 40% more weight than those who didn’t (
This can be partially explained by a rise in metabolism, but may also be due to the effect water has on your appetite. Drinking water has been linked to reduced hunger, so if you drink water before a meal, you may eat less (
Improves Digestive Health
Hydration is important for digestive health and maintaining regular bowel movements. Chronic dehydration can cause constipation, which can make you feel bloated and sluggish (
Drinking plenty of water may help food pass smoothly through your gut and prevent you from becoming constipated.
Improves Mood and Energy Levels
Even mild dehydration can affect mood, concentration and energy levels.
Studies have shown that dehydration levels of around 1% can significantly decrease mood, reduce concentration span and cause headaches (
One study looked at adults who consumed less than 41 oz (1.2 liters) of water per day. When they increased their water intake to 85 oz (2.5 liters) per day, they were happier, had more energy and felt calmer (
If you aren’t drinking enough, increasing your water intake could improve your mood and give you more energy.
Boosts Immune Function
This is one claim about detox water that may be a little exaggerated.
It’s true that eating fruits and vegetables and even fruit juices can help support your immune system (
In particular, vitamin C has been shown to benefit your immune system when consumed on a regular basis (
However, the amount of these nutrients that you would get from an infusion like detox water is likely to be minimal and highly variable.
Although it is theoretically possible, it’s unlikely detox water has any meaningful effect on immune function.
Bottom Line:
Drinking detox water could help you lose weight, have better digestive health and make you happier. However, you will get all of these benefits from drinking regular water too.
