Dishwashing may seem like a mundane and unpleasant task, but did you know it can actually help you shed pounds? Here’s how:.

1. Standing Burns Calories

When you stand and move around, you burn more calories than when you sit or lay down.

Dishwashing requires you to stand for an extended period of time and move your arms repetitively to scrub dishes, which can result in a small amount of weight loss over time.

2. It’s a Low-Impact Exercise

If you have joint issues or simply prefer low-impact exercise, dishwashing can be an excellent way to get your body moving without putting excess strain on your joints.

It’s an easy way to add a little extra activity to your day without having to leave home or hit the gym.

3. It Helps Reduce Stress

Stress can have a negative impact on your body, including causing weight gain. If you find dishwashing to be a soothing and meditative activity, it can help you reduce stress and lower your cortisol levels, which can help you lose weight.

4. It Can Encourage Mindful Eating

When you wash your dishes by hand, you’re forced to take your time and be mindful of each dish as you clean it.

This can carry over to mealtime, encouraging you to be more mindful of your food choices and to eat more slowly, which can aid in digestion and help you feel fuller faster.

5. It Can be Therapeutic

Dishwashing can be seen as a form of therapy for some people. It’s a simple and repetitive activity that can help you relax and unwind after a long day.

Some people find the sound of running water and the act of washing dishes to be very calming, which can help them destress and avoid emotional eating.

6. It Burns More Calories Than You Think

While it’s true that dishwashing isn’t a high-intensity workout, it does burn more calories than you might expect. According to some estimates, scrubbing dishes for an hour can burn up to 150 calories, which can add up over time.

7. It Can Get You Moving

If you’re someone who spends a lot of time sitting or has a sedentary job, dishwashing can be a great way to get your body moving. It doesn’t require any special equipment or skills, and you can do it at any time of day.

Even just a few minutes of dishwashing can get your heart rate up and help you burn a few extra calories.

8. It Can Help You Stay Organized

Dishwashing can be a good way to stay organized and on top of your food choices.

When you take the time to wash your dishes immediately after using them, you’re less likely to let them pile up and become overwhelmed with the task of cleaning the entire kitchen. This can help you stay on track with your meal planning and stay mindful of what you’re eating.

9. It Gives You a Sense of Accomplishment

When you finish washing a sink full of dishes, you might feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. This can be a great mood booster and can help you feel motivated to tackle other tasks in your day, including your fitness routine or meal prep.

10. It’s a Good Distraction

Finally, dishwashing can be a good distraction from food cravings or emotional eating triggers. When you’re focused on cleaning dishes, you’re less likely to be thinking about food or struggling with cravings.

This can be a good strategy for people who are trying to change their eating habits or reduce their snacking.