Water retention occurs when fluid is not sufficiently removed from the body's tissues. Water retention can be caused by hot weather, increased levels of salt in the body and premenstrual syndrome, among other things. When the body is inundated with excess fluid, symptoms such as swelling of the feet, hands and ankles can occur, along with stiffness or weight fluctuations. While minerals, lifestyle changes and certain beverages may reduce water retention, certain vitamins may also decrease bloating. Before turning to vitamins, however, consult your health care provider to ensure your edema is not a result of a serious condition.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 helps the body metabolize hormones that contribute to fluid retention, including estrogen and progesterone. In doing so, it reduces bloating and fluid retention. Taking vitamin B6 in conjunction with other B-complex vitamins is believed to be more effective. But B6 can be toxic in high amounts, so consult your health care provider for information on proper supplementation.
Vitamin D
As Medical News Today points out, vitamin D deficiency is a frequently unrecognized medical condition that may lead to osteoporosis, certain types of cancers, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases and heart disease. It is essential to supply your body with sufficient amounts of vitamin D, as deficiency may also increase your risk of fluid retention and protein loss in the urine. Taking vitamin D daily or consuming fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin D helps maintain healthy fluid flow throughout the body's tissues.
Vitamin C
Fluid constantly flows out into the body's tissues from the blood. When fluid isn't effectively pulled from the tissues back into the bloodstream, water retention occurs. Among the types of water retention are generalized edema, in which swelling occurs throughout the body, and localized edema, in which only certain body parts swell. One remedy for this swelling is vitamin C, which strengthens the capillaries, decreases edema and serves as a powerful antioxidant to keep the systems running smoothly.
