Studies have shown that a decrease in water intake will cause an increase of fat deposits while an increase in water intake can actually reduce fat deposits. Drinking enough water is the best treatment for fluid retention. When the body gets less water, it perceives that as a threat to survival and begins to actually retain water. Water is stored outside the cells and hence, swollen feet, hands and ankles happen. An overweight person needs more water than a thin person does.
Larger people have larger metabolic loads.
Since water is the key to fat metabolism, the larger person needs more water to metabolize fat more effectively. Water also helps to maintain proper muscle tone by giving muscles their natural ability to contract and prevent dehydration of muscle tissue. Water also helps to prevent the skin sagging that usually follows weight loss. These shrinking cells become buoyed by the water and plumps the skin, which give a clear, healthy resiliency. Water helps rid the body of waste and can relieve constipation.