Also known as edema, water retention is excessive fluid in body tissues. Between tissues and blood plasma there is a constant exchange of fluids. Water retention occurs when these liquids can’t be reabsorbed into the blood. Here are some causes of water retention:
-Obesity
-Menopause
-Hypertension
-Diuretics
-Hypothyroidism
-Hyperthyroidism
-Kidney problems
If water retention is not due to serious health problems, try some of these solutions:
1. Avoid salty foods
Try to reduce salt in your diet because sodium increases fluid retention. Even if your food recipe requires salt try to add more pepper or seasoning. Also is essential to remove fast food from your diet.
2. Eat bananas
Eat banana before or after a workout because bananas contain potassium, which helps to reduce the fluid retention.
3. Use ice cubes
If you notice that your ankles swell, apply some ice and you see how they will return to normal. Put some ice cubes in a bag that you can close, wrap a towel around the bag and leave it standing between 5 and 10 minutes. People with diabetes or circulation problems should avoid ice baths.
4. Eat natural diuretics
A natural diuretic is cabbage. Add it to salads or sandwiches. Cranberry juice is a natural diuretic, too. Find a juice without added sugar or preservatives. Also, you can eat watermelon, lettuce and cucumbers.
5. Drink water
When you feel that you suffer from water retention, a glass of water can be about the last thing on your mind. It’s possible to be the best thing for you. Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day.
The water consumption mentioned above applies only to water retention caused by premenstrual syndrome. If you suffer from something else you better see a doctor because excess of water may harm you.
6. Take your vitamins
Increase your dose of vitamin A and vitamin C, both managed to reduce capillary fragility and decrease water retention. Also, vitamin B6 and vitamin D found in beef, tuna, salmon, brown rice, can help reduce water retention.
7. Make sport
Your body will heat and remove toxins when you sweat. Also, sports will improve your heal.