How to Rid Your Body of Excess Water Weight
By Genevieve Cunningham
If you’ve ever weighed yourself in the morning and again at night, you’ve probably noticed a difference. Some days the difference is small, and other days you wonder how you could have gained so much in such a small amount of time. Food, activity, and lifestyle certainly play a role, but it can still be disheartening when you step on the scale. The good news is that many times, this excess weight is not fat, but water retention. Water retention, in small amounts, doesn’t really cause the body any harm. In large quantities, it can cause some serious damage to your body as a whole. If you feel as though you’re retaining too much water, check out these ways to rid your body of too much H2O.
Lower Your Sodium Intake
Sodium is a huge culprit of water retention. It causes your body to hold onto water instead of ridding itself at a normal rate. The hard part is that sodium is in so many of the foods that we eat today. Canned soups, processed foods, and anything requiring preservation are likely high in sodium. Make sure you read the label to check the content before eating.
Drink More Water
It might sound counterproductive, but it works. When our bodies are dehydrated, they hold onto every drop of water that we give it. If you feel yourself beginning to retain water, it might be smart to up your intake. Start slowly with just a glass or two extra and see what happens. If it works, slowly increase your water intake over the next few days, and do your best to keep it there.
Eat Potassium
Potassium and sodium work delicately in your body to keep your fluid levels even. When the ratio is off, you either get dehydrated or retain water. The proper balance is key for staying healthy and maintaining adequate fluids. To get more potassium, look for foods such as bananas, leafy greens, squash, and avocados.
Water retention happens. Most people will have some sort of water retention from time to time. If you experience it, try these natural remedies to even out your fluid levels. If water retention is persistent, see a doctor to help you stay healthy and feel your best. But if yours is short lived and occasional, some small changes to your normal diet and daily routine may help you get back to normal and boost your wellness, too.