6 THINGS THAT CAUSE FLUID RETENTION IN YOUR BODY AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

Fluid retention is a condition which occurs due to accumulated fluid in tissues. It is often a result of imbalanced fluid levels in the body. The body is a complex machine that relies on various hormones to properly work. When this balance is somehow disrupted, it may cause numerous problems including fluid retention.

When working properly, the body can eliminate the excess fluids on its own through urine or sweat. However, when its function is somehow affected, you need to regulate the balance of fluids in the body in order to restore your health. Here are 6 common things we do that cause fluid retention:

Dehydration

Drinking less than the recommended amount of water (6-8 glasses a day) can dehydrate your body and is very dangerous to your health. In cases of dehydration, the body tries to rehydrate itself by taking water from different tissues which may lead to fluid retention and other serious health problems.

Too much sodium in your diet

Sodium is present in almost any of the foods we eat every day, so it’s really hard to avoid. However, consuming too much of it can cause numerous health problems including fluid retention, so check the labels of the food you’re consuming.

Processed foods

Processed foods are very harmful – they are rich in sugar and sodium which are among the main risk factors for fluid retention and a variety of other diseases and conditions.

Potassium deficiency

Potassium deficiency has been linked to fluid imbalance as well as improperly functioning organs.

Magnesium deficiency

Magnesium is very important for our health and we need about 200 mg. of it a day. In cases of magnesium deficiency, the body will experience fluid retention, so make sure to eat nuts, seeds, whole grains and avocado in order to optimize the levels of the mineral in your body.

Vitamin B6 deficiency

Lack of this vitamin is one of the main causes of fluid retention. Eat more tuna, pistachios, bananas, chicken and sunflower seeds in order to resolve the problem.

In order to prevent fluid retention, exercise is key. Start being physically active today in order to keep the levels of fluids in your body regulated and keep everything functioning properly. Go for a walk, run or swim and aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day 3 times a week or more if you have the time.

You need to adjust your diet if you want to prevent fluid retention – eat more fruit and veggies as they contain compounds that can remove excess fluids from your body. When resting, elevate your legs with a pillow to reduce the swelling in your ankles and prevent accumulation of fluids in your joints.

Finally, you need to wear comfortable clothes. Tight clothes can impair your circulation and cause numerous problems. When showering, do it with lukewarm water as hot water can dehydrate your body and cause fluid retention. Follow these tips and you’ll surely steer clear of the condition and stay healthy.