Fluid retention, formally known as edema, is characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues and circulatory system. Depending on the cause, fluid retention most commonly occurs in the ankles, feet and legs, but it can also cause facial and abdominal bloating. For persistent edema, your physician may prescribe a diuretic, which is a medication that flushes sodium and water from your body. You also have natural diuretic options, such as vitamins and minerals.
Causes of Fluid Retention
Many factors contribute to edema. Common causes include standing for long periods of time, burns, hot weather, blood vessel injuries, high sodium intake, allergies and hormonal fluctuations associated with your menstrual cycle, pregnancy and hormonal contraceptives. Certain medications, dietary deficiencies and medical conditions can also trigger fluid retention as a side effect or symptom.
B Vitamins
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that the B vitamins help with reducing fluid retention. Vitamins B-5 and B-6 in particular promote the excretion of excess fluid. To obtain B vitamins naturally, eat whole grains, sea vegetables and dark, leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, a water-soluble vitamin, also has a mild diuretic effect. The body does not store water-soluble vitamins; it uses only what it needs and excretes the rest. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, so it helps the body fight off inflammation that can cause edema. The best sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, broccoli and cabbage. Your body absorbs more vitamin C from raw or lightly cooked sources, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D works in tandem with vitamin B-5 to flush excess fluid from the body, according to Better Health Channel. Like vitamin C, vitamin D is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation. Your body synthesizes most of the vitamin D it needs with the help of sunlight hitting the skin. Very few natural foods contain vitamin D in significant amounts, but you can find it in some fatty fish and fortified foods, such as dairy products and cereal.
Minerals
Several minerals act in conjunction with the listed vitamins to remove excess fluid. They include calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium and iron. You can take supplements to obtain these minerals, but nutrients are best utilized when obtained from a healthy, balanced diet.
Considerations
Edema is not a disease, but it can present as a symptom of an underlying condition. MayoClinic.com advises that you see your physician if you are suffering from persistent edema, as it may be a sign of a serious disease, including heart failure, kidney disease or cirrhosis. Also, discuss any diuretic treatment with your physician, as overuse can drain your body of vital nutrients.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Edema; March 2010
- Better Health Channel; Fluid Retention; July 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin C; June 2009
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements; Vitamin D; June 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Water Retention: Are There Any Natural Diuretics?; K. Zeratsky; September 2009
Member Comments