How to Deal With Water Retention

The amount of water inside the cells in the body is regulated by certain hormones, the kidneys and sodium levels in the body. Anything that alters hormone or sodium levels or decreases kidney function can potentially cause water retention. Minor water retention is common and affects women more often than men because of hormonal differences. In women, water retention often increases during the week before menstruation begins. Most water retention can be treated at home with lifestyle changes.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter diuretic
• Cranberry juice
• Lemon juice
• Calcium supplement
• Magnesium supplement

Instructions

1. Drink more water. Contrary to what most people believe, increasing your intake of water will actually reduce water retention instead of increasing it. This is because the body attempts to conserve fluid by storing it when intake is insufficient. Drinking a minimum of 64 fluid oz. of water every day is generally sufficient.

2. Reduce your sodium intake by avoiding high-sodium foods, using less table salt and skipping salt completely during food preparation.

3. Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Exercise improves circulation and minimizes the pooling of fluid in the feet and legs.

4. Take a diuretic, with your doctor's approval. Diuretics work by causing the kidneys to excrete more sodium in the urine. Diuretics are available in over-the-counter or prescription strength but should not be used long term because of a risk of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and kidney damage.

5. Try lemon or cranberry juice, both of which are natural diuretics that may help reduce water retention.

6. Take a calcium or magnesium supplement. These minerals may reduce water retention, according to the Mayo Clinic. Supplementing with calcium and magnesium is especially beneficial to bloating caused by PMS.

7. Call your doctor if your water retention fails to improve with lifestyle and dietary changes or if your bloating is excessive or your skin dents when you press it. Sometimes, water retention is a sign of a serious medical disorder such as kidney disease.

Tips & Warnings

• Sudden swelling or water retention during pregnancy may be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a very serious condition that requires immediate medical care.

References

• Mayo Clinic - Water Retention
• Mother Nature - Water Retention
• American Pregnancy Association - Swelling During Pregnancy