Water retention and edema occur when excess fluid is not removed from body tissues, including the skin. This issue is triggered generally in response to elevated body temperatures before or after an excessive consumption of salt. Since water retention may be a symptom of serious conditions such as kidney failure or liver cirrhosis, it is necessary to perform a medical examination to eliminate other pathological causes for edema. If water retention comes amid particular physiological predispositions, it can be prevented and controlled by natural remedies. Here are ten of them.
1. Drinking plenty of fluids
A first measure to eliminate excessive fluid in tissues is increased consumption of fluids (especially water). When the body is dehydrated, it begins to retain water, favoring the installation of edema. When the body is provided with sufficient liquid, it activates the natural drainage mechanisms. In this regard, you can consume plenty of:
- Water
- Watermelon juice
- Orange juice
- Coconut water
- Herbal teas
- Decaffeinated beverages
2. Reducing salt intake
Increased salt intake contributes greatly to water retention in tissues and worsening edema once installed. Thus, an effective natural remedy is to avoid foods high in sodium (processed meats, potato chips, salt, bakery products etc.) and spicing food using healthier herbs (basil, rosemary, thyme, pepper etc.).
3. Mineral repletion
Deficiencies in essential minerals (such as potassium and calcium) often worsen symptoms of water retention. So, swelling will decrease with increased consumption of food sources rich in minerals, especially potassium, which helps regulate sodium levels in the body. So eat plenty of:
- Watermelon
- Bananas
- Salmon
- White beans
- Baked potatoes
- Baked pumpkin
- Yogurt
- Avocados
- Mushrooms
4. Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle promotes edema, so regular movement is a prerequisite to prevent water retention. A half an hour of light exercise helps detoxify the body, a phenomenon that successfully combats fluid retention in the tissues. If you suffer from painful joints or other health problems that restrict you physically, work under the supervision of a medical specialist in gymnastics.
5. Fight stress
Stress is an aggravating factor or trigger for hormonal disorders, the main causes for water retention in the tissues. Breathing exercises, meditation, massage therapy or prolonged rest are effective ways to keep stress under control and, indirectly, to prevent swelling. There are certain types of therapeutic massages devoted to the proper functioning of the lymphatic system, which therefore improve the symptoms of edema.
6. Infusions of dandelion
Infusions of dandelion can be an excellent natural remedy for water retention, diuretic and providing the body with potassium. This herb helps eliminate edema by diuresis without depriving your body of the minerals it needs. An infusion of dandelion is made from two teaspoons of whole plant (roots and leaves) in a cup of water. The dose recommended for water retention is two cups per day.
7. Using ice packs
When edema is already installed, the local application of ice packs may help to deflate the affected region. Place a frozen package on the area with excess water, cover with a towel and wait about 10 minutes for it to act. During summer, keeping feet in cold water can have the same positive effect, but it is not recommended for diabetics, without consulting the physician.
8. Consumption of natural diuretics
Natural diuretics are other effective remedies in case of water retention. Cabbage, for example, can be eaten fresh, reducing edema. Cranberry juice helps the body efficiently drain excessive fluids retained in tissues.
9. Using natural grape seed extract
Natural extract of grape seeds, whether in the form of capsules, powder or oil, has proven effective in treating edema. The powerful antioxidants in grape seeds help relieve symptoms associated with water retention.
10. Daily consumption of fresh cucumbers
Cucumbers are an excellent source of fresh water and also have natural compounds that remove toxins that can cause edema. Eat at least one whole fresh cucumber every day to get results.
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