How to reduce water retention?
This question was front of mind to ask Lily when I saw her last week.
I have been flying quite a bit recently and have found the problem of water retention, especially after longer flights, to be a problem. Apart from the way an excess of fluid looks it makes me feel ghastly and is very uncomfortable.
I know for some water retention is never an issue but for me it has been an irritating companion for as long as I remember. I asked Lily for some natural and easy ways to help the problem. I find if a remedy is not something I can take or do easily, it doesn’t last long.
Here are her suggestions and there are at least three I can improve on.
Water retention can be one of those frustrating problems, which can happen at any time and to anyone. Whether is down to swollen ankles from a long haul flight, or a feeling of puffiness after polishing off a bag of salty crisps, there are many great natural methods to help alleviate symptoms.
7 Natural Ways To Reduce Water Retention
Minimise Salt
The main constituent of salt is sodium, which binds to water within the body causing water retention.
Studies have shown that many of us consume up to 9.6g of salt a day, going way above our RDA of 6g per day.
Salt is found in most processed foods. Check the labels of processed foods before purchasing.
Increase Potassium
Potassium decreases sodium levels and acts as a diuretic making it the perfect mineral to alleviate fluid retention.
Eat more avocados, leafy greens, bananas and tomatoes and drink more coconut water.
Dandelion Tea
Dandelion has been used for centuries to reduce water retention. Not only is dandelion a rich source of potassium, the plant acts as a natural diuretic, allowing your kidneys to drain away more water.
Drink 2-4 cups of dandelion tea a day
Magnesium and Vitamin B6
Numerous studies have shown that an increased consumption of magnesium and vitamin B6 can reduce water retention for those suffering from PMS. Both these nutrients control many aspects of water balance within the body so shouldn’t go a miss.
For magnesium eat more dark green leafy veg, nuts, seeds, avocado and beans.
For vitamin B6 eat more sunflower seeds, pistachio nuts, sweet potato, fish and meat
Eat Asparagus
Asparagus is a well-known diuretic, which can help, rid the body of excess salt and fluid, perfect for banishing water retention.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
The role of the lymph system is to collect fluid and return it to the blood. However if this process is sluggish, fluid retention can occur. A lymphatic drainage massage can stimulate excess fluid to move away from the swollen area so it can drain naturally.
Keep Moving
Standing or sitting for long periods can result in fluid to pool in the tissues of the lower legs. By moving around every 20 minutes or so, muscular contractions can help pump the lymph through our vessels allowing fluid to move away from the area.
7 natural ways to reduce water retention by lily soutter
Lily Soutter is a Nutritionist & Nutritional Therapist
Learn more about Lily @lilysoutternutrition.com
images, rie hosokai and takashi kawada
