Foods containing salt, especially salts of sodium, are increasingly prevalent in the modern diet. Consumption of sodium in excess can cause fluid and salt retention, leading to a bulging stomach, especially if you carry extra weight around your abdomen. Prevent the stomach bulge by avoiding sodium, drinking plenty of water and eating a high-fiber diet.
Sodium
The recommended maximum intake of sodium is 2,300 mg per day, according to the U.S. Institute of Medicine. People with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease should limit sodium to 1,500 mg per day. Unfortunately, it is common to consume 3,000 to 6,000 mg of sodium per day. The activity of excitable tissues, such as the brain, heart and muscles, are affected by the levels of sodium in the body; thus, your body very tightly regulates the amount of sodium by excreting excess and diluting sodium with extra water.
Water Retention
Water retention, medically called edema, is the storage of salt and fluid in tissues of your body, particularly fat. Edema can be caused by excess sodium intake, dehydration or an underlying medical condition. You may notice edema after eating too much salt as swelling of your ankles or puffiness on the back of your hands. Your stomach may feel bloated and full. You may have difficulty bending over, because while fat can be compressed, water cannot. If edema persists or worsens, see your doctor, as it may be a sign of a serious medical condition.
Avoiding Sodium
More than 70 percent of dietary sodium is found in processed foods, according to the Mayo Clinic. Read the labels on foods, avoiding any that have more than 200 mg of sodium per serving. Choose fresh foods whenever possible. While some words on food packaging indicate the food is low in sodium---such as no sodium, very low sodium or low sodium---foods with other labels may still be very high in salt---such as no salt added or reduced sodium.
Losing the Bulge
Your body can only excrete so much sodium per day. It will take several days to get rid of water retention related to sodium overconsumption. During this time avoid salt whenever possible and drink plenty of water, as dehydration will only promote fluid retention. High fiber foods, such as whole grain, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, can absorb extra salt and water as they pass through your intestines.
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