All that one needs to try the water diet is access to cold water. The directions are simple. In addition to regular meals and beverages, one should consume 8 ounces of very cold water eight times per day (64 ounces total). Diet proponents believe weight loss will be achieved because the body requires extra energy (calories) to raise the temperature of cold water once it’s consumed. Those using the water diet to lose weight also believe the water flushes toxins from the body.