Water retention, also called edema, results from excess fluid in the body that causes bloating, swelling or puffiness. Many conditions can affect the kidney's fluid regulation. For example, according to the Mayo Clinic, hormonal imbalances that occur during the premenstrual period commonly cause water retention in women. Edema can also stem from medical problems, however, such as congestive heart failure or kidney disease. Some home remedies can negatively affect underlying medical problems, so speak with your doctor about the appropriate treatment.
Hydration
Dehydration causes water retention because it puts the body in "survival mode." The body hesitates releasing stored up water because it is not being hydrated enough. Drinking more water can can promote urination and restore the fluid imbalance. According to "1801 Home Remedies" by the Reader's Digest, two to four cups of dandelion tea daily can flush out excess water because of its natural diuretic effect.
Diet
A diet consisting of foods with high sodium, or salt, causes water retention. Drinking more water can also help flush out excess salt in the body. Meanwhile, getting too little potassium can contribute to a fluid imbalance as well. The Reader's Digest suggests increasing intake of potassium-rich foods to alleviate the problem. These include bananas, avocados and citrus fruits. Other vegetables and fruits to add to your diet are watermelon, celery and cucumbers which contain natural diuretic chemicals as well as a high water content.
Exercise
According to Family Doctor.org, a website of the American Academy of Family Physicians, edema often causes swelling in the legs and feet, especially after sitting or standing for too long. Regular exercise for the leg muscles can reduce this swelling because the pumping action of the muscles helps push the fluid up. The Mayo Clinic also states women who exercise regularly experience less premenstrual bloating and other premenstrual symptoms.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Water retention - Relieve this premenstrual symptom
- Family Doctor.org: Edema
- "1801 Home Remedies"; Reader's Digest; 2004
- Mayo Clinic: Water Retention-Natural Diuretics
