Water retention, also called edema, can occur during pregnancy, illness or extended periods of time on your feet. These factors cause the body's natural fluids to settle into specific areas of the body such as the legs and feet. Certain medications such as hormone replacement therapy drugs may also cause water retention, however thorough examination by your doctor is important when no underlying factors are present. Severe, chronic swelling could indicate something more serious such as heart or kidney problems. Seek medical attention for any unexplained fluid retention.
Step 1
Consume foods enriched with vitamin B6 such as green leafy vegetables and whole grains. These foods are also rich in iron, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B6 and iron help eliminate excess fluid build up in the extremities while preventing recurrence.
Step 2
Drink a cup of parsley or uva-ursi tea once daily to help remove excess fluid. These teas pose no risk for harmful side effects and are found in many health food stores, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies."
Step 3
Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Foods such as asparagus, parsley and grapes are natural diuretics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Foods such as blueberries, cherries and tomatoes contain antioxidants that are responsible for eliminating harmful toxins that may be the cause of fluid retention.
Step 4
Eat lean meats, freshwater fish or beans for protein. Red meats are higher in fat and sodium, which in turn increases fluid retention when conditions are right such as with pregnancy and illness. Soy is also an ideal source of protein for people who have no known soy allergies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 5
Limit your use of sodium, alcohol and tobacco. All three of these lifestyle elements promote fluid retention by promoting dehydration.
