Water weight is the accumulation of fluids in your soft tissues. It generally affects the feet, ankles and legs, causes no pain and is treatable with home remedies. Being obese, of older age, or suffering from any condition that impairs your circulation puts you at considerably higher risk for water weight. Sometimes, retaining water can be a sign of kidney, heart or liver disease. Therefore, any swelling or fluid retention should be evaluated by a medical professional before you attempt home treatment.
Step 1
Sleep and relax with your feet propped up on pillows so that they are higher than the level of your heart. This encourages fluid to drain from your lower feet and ankles.
Step 2
Limit your salt intake to 1,500 milligrams or less per day. Avoid processed foods, excess use of salt at meals and during cooking, and smoked or cured meats. Choose low-sodium food options, when possible.
Step 3
Take 1,000 mg of supplemental calcium before and during menstruation to ease water-swelling weight associated with hormonal water retention. Some women experience a worsening of water retention around their menstrual period, according to an article published in the October 2004 issue of "Parents" magazine.
Step 4
Exercise regularly to improve your cardiovascular health and promote the pumping of fluid from your legs back to your heart. If you currently suffer from a heart condition, consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.
Step 5
Lose weight if you are more than a few pounds overweight. Being overweight or obese strains your heart and impairs your circulation, both of which prevent fluids from properly circulating throughout your body.
Step 6
Wear compression hose to improve leg circulation and prevent fluid accumulation, and take frequent breaks when sitting or standing for long periods to encourage blood flow throughout your body.
Step 7
Try using a natural diuretic to ease water retention. Katherine Satisfy, R.D., L.D., of the Mayo Clinic recommends using dandelion, juniper and ginger to combat water weight.
Step 8
Discuss medical causes of your water-swelling weight with your doctor, and ask your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Calcium supplement
- Compression hose
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