Can you lose weight by drinking water?

Drinking water alone does not contribute to weight loss directly, but adequate water intake can indirectly support someone trying to lose weight, according to Women's Health. Water maintains proper hydration and reduces cravings for food. People often think they are hungry when they are actually thirsty.

People who drink at least 6 1/2 cups of water daily take in 200 fewer calories than those who do not, according to The Doctor Oz Show. Drinking cold water enhances a person's metabolism for about 30 minutes after consumption, which means more efficient calorie burning, notes Mehmet Oz, M.D., writing on Sharecare. A person is drinking adequate water when urine is pale yellow, reports Women's Health.