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| - Last Updated on December 16, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that sitting in chest-deep water at 40°C can cause rapid weight loss. We did the fact check and termed this claim as false.
The Claim
A YouTube video by Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury claims that sitting in water at a temperature of 40°C, with the water level up to the chest, can help lose 500 grams to 1 kilogram of weight in an hour. The video further suggests that staying in such water for two to three hours can help achieve weight loss goals of up to three kilograms.
Fact Check
Can sitting in warm water cause weight loss?
It may, but only through water loss. Sitting in warm water can lead to sweating, which results in the loss of fluids from the body. This temporary weight loss is due to dehydration, not fat loss. Once you rehydrate by drinking water, the weight returns. A 2022 study looked at how hot water immersion (HWI) affects weight loss. Athletes sat in hot water (40.3°C) for 20 minutes, followed by a heated blanket. They lost about 2.2 kg, but this weight loss was mostly due to fluid loss, not fat loss. Blood tests showed changes, but these returned to normal once the athletes rehydrated. The weight lost during the hot bath was quickly regained after they drank fluids and ate. This shows that the weight loss from hot water immersion is temporary and not a lasting way to lose fat. It’s just fluid loss that gets added back once the body rehydrates.
We connected with Dr Brendan Egan, one of the researchers of this particular study. He is the Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Physiology, and currently Head of School for the School of Health and Human Performance at Dublin City University. He responded:
“That work we did focused on what we term ‘rapid weight loss’ in the context of combat sports and fighters trying to ‘make weight’ in their weight category. We used hot water immersion to induce sweating and loss of body weight through dehydration. So yes, we did induce weight loss of that magnitude in a short period of time by hot water immersion, but it was almost certainly all ‘water weight’/dehydration. As you can see in the data from our study, all the weight was regained by the next day when the participants were rehydrated. So the weight loss is indeed rapid, but mostly weight lost as sweat, making it transient until the person is rehydrated.”
The body sweats to regulate temperature in hot conditions, including warm water immersion. However, this method is not a healthy or effective way to manage weight, as it does not reduce fat.
We reached out to Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, for his take on warm water immersion method for weight loss. He says, “Sitting in warm water might lead to temporary weight loss, but this is primarily due to fluid loss through sweating. This is not actual fat loss, and the weight will quickly return once you rehydrate. Sustainable weight loss requires a combination of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. It’s important to focus on healthy, long-term habits rather than quick fixes like warm water immersion, which doesn’t have lasting effects on body fat.”
Is the claimant a reliable source of health information?
No, ‘Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury’ is not a trustworthy source for health advice. He claims to be a doctor, but he doesn’t have the proper medical qualifications. In fact, he holds an honorary PhD from an unaccredited university, which is considered a scam. Chowdhury has promoted harmful ideas, like denying the reality of diseases such as diabetes and COVID-19. He has also made false claims, such as using hot water immersion to treat kidney disease, which we have debunked before. His misleading advice has led to legal trouble, including a criminal case for offering fake treatments that caused harm. It’s important to be cautious about the information he shares.
Does warm water immersion help with long-term weight loss?
No, warm water immersion does not lead to long-term weight loss. Fat loss, which is the goal of sustainable weight management, occurs when the body burns more calories than it consumes. This requires a combination of healthy eating, physical activity, and a calorie deficit.
The weight loss claimed in the video is only temporary and linked to fluid loss. Dehydration can also cause fatigue, dizziness, and other health risks if prolonged.
Can this method be harmful?
Yes, prolonged exposure to warm water can be harmful. Sitting in water at 40°C for extended periods increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke. Long-term exposure to warm or hot water actually negatively affects the skin barrier too. These conditions can be dangerous, especially for individuals with underlying skin conditions or health issues.
Furthermore, rapid fluid loss can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, which are important for muscle and nerve function. Severe dehydration can strain the heart and kidneys.
How can I lose weight quickly and safely?
To lose weight quickly and safely, follow these simple steps:
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid junk food and sugary drinks.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. This can include walking, jogging, or any physical activity you enjoy.
- Drink enough water: Water helps control hunger and keeps your body hydrated. Try to drink 6-8 glasses a day.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep can affect your weight loss efforts.
- Manage stress: High stress can lead to overeating. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
Consult a healthcare expert or nutritionist before starting any weight loss plan to ensure it’s safe and specific to your needs.
We spoke with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, to learn about safe weight loss approaches. She says, “Losing weight safely and effectively is all about consistency and balance. A healthy diet, rich in whole foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, combined with regular physical activity, provides the foundation for lasting weight loss. Extreme diets or quick fixes that promise rapid results can harm your health in the long run. Instead, focus on small, manageable changes and aim for steady progress over time. Quick weight loss methods can lead to muscle loss, nutritional imbalances, and other health issues. Always consult a professional before starting any weight loss plan to ensure it’s tailored to your needs.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that sitting in chest-deep water at 40°C can cause rapid weight loss is false. While temporary water weight loss is possible, it is not a sustainable or healthy method for weight management. Instead, focus on evidence-based approaches like balanced nutrition and regular exercise for long-term results.
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