Water retention is a condition that is relatively common in women. Basically, it indicates weakness in heart, kidneys or adrenal glands caused by stress. Most patients are prescribed with diuretics to reduce water retention. However, other options are available in reducing water retention. Learn how to reduce water retention with these tips.
Tips to Decrease Water Retention
- Cut down your salt-intake. Excessive intake of salt may lead to water retention. Try to limit your intake of foods that contain excessive amount of salt and preservatives like cheese, crackers and ham.
- Drink lots of water. Water helps flush out salts that are being accumulated in your system. So be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to reduce and prevent water retention.
- Avoid drinking carbonated and alcoholic drinks. Drinking sodas and alcohols increases the likelihood to have water retention.
- Add fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Fruits and veggies like corn, watermelon, grapes, asparagus and cucumber are ideal in reducing water retention. They are best consumed together with cornsilk tea to avoid water retention.
- Maintain good blood circulation. It is advisable to move every now and then to keep your circulation going. You can also reduce water retention by elevating your legs when sitting. Let say if you’re watching TV or reading books, it would be better if you will use recliner. Relieve the tension of your ankle and feet by soaking it to cool water when it feels hot. You can use cold compress or ice pack as alternative.
- Consult your doctor for diuretic prescriptions. Taking over-the-counter medications could not be a good idea if your case is severe. It is advisable to consult your doctor for appropriate prescription. You should also be aware that using diuretic for long-term may lead to potassium deficiency. This condition increases the risk of osteoporosis.