Fluid retention, also known as edema, is the swelling of the body as a result of fluid buildup. This happens when fluid fills gaps in between cells. Edema can be the result of a variety of factors including high salt intake, pregnancy, diabetes, medications, chemotherapy, hormones, infections or blocked lymph channels. Common signs of edema include puffiness, bloating and swelling in the lower extremities such as the legs, ankles and feet, but can also be seen in the face and hands, and sometimes even in the abdomen. While a state of edema is not considered to be a disease, there are health risks associated with prolonged fluid retention. Altering your diet and choosing the right foods can help to reduce edema, although you should always consult your doctor before starting a diet regime to treat an illness.
Natural Diuretics
A diuretic is a substance that increases urination. Increased urination can help to reduce edema by allowing excess fluid to be excreted through the urine. Some medications are diuretics, but they can also be found naturally in some foods. Onions, garlic, pumpkin, grapes, beets, asparagus, parsley, green beans and pineapple all have diuretic properties. Ingesting these foods on a regular basis will decrease fluid retention.
Foods Rich in Vitamin B
The human body uses enzymes to carry out certain bodily functions, including removal of retained water. The B vitamins are a group of nutrients that are co-enzymes -- they assist other enzymes in their functions. Increasing B vitamins will help enzymes work more efficiently at reducing edema. Foods that contain B vitamins include whole grains, spinach and kale. Eating these foods regularly will allow B vitamin co-enzymes to boost functioning of enzymes designed to remove retained water from the body.
Antioxidants
An abundance of antioxidants boosts the immune system and helps to keep the body functioning properly. With an immune boost, bodily systems are likely to work more efficiently in reducing edema. There are many fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants such as blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, squash and bell peppers. By increasing intake of these fruits and vegetables, your immune system will flourish and your body will begin to process excess fluids more rapidly.
Foods High in Potassium
Potassium is an electrolyte -- it is needed in the body for the cells to carry out their functions. When electrolytes are low, an imbalance is created and stored water may become trapped in the body. Electrolytes, like potassium, increase the body's ability to carry out these cellular functions and can aid in the reduction of edema. Foods that contain potassium are bananas, brown rice, nuts, potatoes, poultry and avocados.
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