Can You Lose Weight in a Bathtub? The Real Truth Behind It

Bathing significantly links to weight management, but it’s typical to wonder whether the impact is direct or indirect, or perhaps hot baths burn more calories than cold ones. While there’s still so much to investigate, it’s apparent that the bathtub can be the ideal spot to drop some belly and body fluff.

Research has shown that you can lose weight in a bathtub. You can lose an equivalent of a 30-minute walk, about 140 calories. Hot baths can be more effective than cold baths in losing weight.

Are you contemplating dipping yourself in the bathtub to drop some weight? This article will inform you about whether or not that’s possible.

The Science Behind Bathing and Weight Loss

Science overwhelmingly backs the claim that bathing can help with weight loss. Most studies suggest that the impact is rather indirect than direct, which is true. However, bathing in the tub can help you drop extra pounds consistently and persistently.

A recent journal by the International Journal of Circumpolar Health through the National Center for Biotechnology Information weighed on the ongoing debate on whether or not cold exposure offers positive health effects, including weight loss.

The peer-reviewed publication affirmed that cold exposure could lead to shivering and cold-induced vasodilation, directly triggering weight loss. Read: How To Make Weight Loss Fun?

Another study (1) also affirmed the possibility of burning about 140 calories, equating to the number of calories burnt in a 30-minute walk.

The study, which focused on the effects of passive heating as a possible treatment for metabolic diseases, affirmed that hot water can help with weight loss. More evidence shows how bathing or immersing in cold or hot water can help with loss.

Hot Or Cold Bath: Which Is Better for Weight Loss

There’s no clear winner between cold and hot water, which can help with weight loss. Immersing yourself in cold water or simply taking a bath can have an impact, almost similar to hot baths. However, the latter seems to have an edge.

A hot bath can positively affect weight loss, especially if the water is around body temperature. Spending time in a hot bath can raise your body temperature, stimulating thermogenesis.Read: How Can I Eat And Still Lose Weight?

That, in turn, can lead to a modest increase in calorie expenditure. Moreover, hot water causes blood vessels to dilate, promoting better blood flow. Improved circulation can help with nutrient delivery and waste removal, supporting overall metabolism and potentially aiding weight loss.

Stress reduction can indirectly support weight loss by reducing stress-related behaviors like overeating or emotional eating. These habits can quickly increase your weight and compromise your weight loss goals.

Cold baths still offer a lot for your weight loss goals. Exposing your body to cold temperatures activates brown adipose tissue. Brown fat generates heat, which requires energy in the form of calories. Activating BAT can increase calorie expenditure.

Cold water immersion can also aid in recovery after intense exercise. Reducing inflammation and muscle soreness can support a more consistent exercise routine. Cold exposure can also temporarily increase metabolic rate as the body works to maintain its core temperature. That can contribute to higher calorie burn during and after a cold bath.

How Many Calories Can You Burn in a Bathtub?

Studies have shown you can burn up to 140 calories in a bathtub. This amount equals that of a typical 30-minute walk. This calorie amount can result in significant weight loss if you remain consistent with the routine.

Immerse yourself in warm water slightly increases your body temperature, leading to a slight increase in calorie expenditure.

Unlike walking and being physically active, relaxing in the bathtub makes losing weight easier as you hardly expend energy. An hour in the bathtub can help you burn more than 61kcal, which is a significant amount of energy compared to just sitting on your sofa. Also read: Can Chiropractic Help You Lose Weight?

How Frequently Should You Take Baths for Weight Loss?

Consistently taking baths—preferably every day—in your bathtub can result in Reasonable weight loss. However, it would help if you didn’t solely rely on this method to lose weight as it may delay achieving your weight loss results despite taking baths more frequently. Try as much as you can to avoid possible weight gain by avoiding foods and habits that increase your fat proliferation.

It’s, therefore, best to always adopt and incorporate other weight loss practices and not solely rely on your bathtub. Some best weight loss methods you can incorporate include:

• Set realistic goals

Start by setting realistic and achievable weight loss goals. Aim for gradual, steady progress rather than rapid weight loss, as this is more sustainable and healthier for your body.

• Create a calorie deficit

To lose weight, it’s prudent to create a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than you burn. You can achieve that through a balanced, calorie-controlled diet and regular physical activity.

• Follow a balanced diet

Focus on a balanced and nutritious diet that includes various whole foods. Avoid or limit processed and high-sugar foods as much as possible.

• Portion control

Be mindful of portion sizes and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Pay attention to serving sizes and consider using smaller plates and bowls to help control portions.

• Regular physical activity

Incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Aim for cardiovascular exercises (such as brisk walking, running, or cycling) and strength training to build muscle and boost metabolism.

• Stay hydrated

Drink a lot of clean water throughout the day. You can sometimes mistake thirst for hunger, so staying hydrated can help prevent unnecessary snacking.

• Mindful eating

Try paying close attention to each bite of your food. That can help you tune in to your body’s fullness and hunger signals and prevent overeating.

What are the Alternate Health Benefits of Hot Baths?

Hot baths or immersions in your hot tub can offer benefits beyond weight loss. These benefits are typically therapeutic and help with your relaxation, indirectly contributing to weight loss. Below are the alternate health benefits of taking hot baths:

• Relaxation and stress reduction

Hot baths are renowned for their relaxation benefits. The warmth of the water can help relax both the body and mind, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calmness.

• Improved sleep quality

A hot bath before bed can promote better sleep. The rise and subsequent drop in body temperature can help signal the body for rest and improve sleep quality and duration.

• Muscle relaxation and pain relief

Hot baths can alleviate muscle tension and stiffness, relieving muscle soreness or minor injuries. They may also help ease symptoms of conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.

• Enhanced circulation

The heat from hot baths dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow and circulation. That can benefit overall cardiovascular health and nutrient delivery throughout the body.

• Respiratory benefits

The steam from hot baths can help clear nasal passages, alleviate congestion, and relieve respiratory conditions like allergies or sinusitis.

Still, cold baths can offer numerous health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and muscle soreness, increasing alertness and energy, improving mood, and promoting overall well-being. They can provide a refreshing and invigorating experience. Individual preferences and tolerance for cold temperatures may vary.

Is There Any Negative Impact of Losing Weight in the Bathtub?

Losing weight using the bathtub doesn’t cause adverse health effects; you can rely on this method. However, it would help if you incorporated other weight loss approaches, including calorie deficits and exercise. If you have any underlying conditions, please consult your healthcare provider before using the bathtub for weight loss.

The Final Thought

The bathtub can help you lose up to 140 calories for every session, an equivalent of a 30-minute weight loss. The weight loss method is entirely safe since it doesn’t cause any adverse side effects. Besides, it doesn’t tire you of exercising or restricting your diet. Nonetheless, it’s best to know that the bathtub may not be your magic pill for weight loss, and you shouldn’t solely rely on it.

Medical Discalimer: The information provided here On Geeks Health website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you have or suspect a medical problem, promptly contact your healthcare provider. Reliance on any information in this response is solely at your own risk.