It is natural to retain water from time to time. Extreme heat, dehydration, high concentrations of sodium and premenstrual symptoms can all cause water retention. Sometimes the retention is hardly detectable and other times it is visually noticeable. Some simple steps can help reduce water retention.
Step 1
Limit your salt intake to about 1000 milligrams a day. Eliminate high-sodium processed foods from your diet and do not add salt to fresh foods.
Step 2
Increase your water intake. Drink a minimum of eight 8 oz. glasses of water per day. A deficiency of fluids can cause your body to hold onto the water it currently has.
Step 3
Eat more fruits and vegetables.The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that adults eat between 2.5 and 3 cups of vegetables and between 2.5 and 2 cups of fruits every day. In addition to putting natural vitamins and minerals into your body, the water in fruits and vegetables help reduce the amount of fluid your body retains. Iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, melons, pineapples or grapes are helpful in this process.
Step 4
Take a bath with hot (but not steaming) water with 1 cup epsom salt or 2 cups of apple cider vinegar. These products act as diuretics and will help to remove excess water or toxins that may be causing you to retain water. Soak until the water turns cool. Repeat if desired.
Step 5
Take an over-the-counter diuretic, such as Diurex, to help reduce excess water.
