Water Retention: What Causes It and How to Eliminate It

✅ How to Eliminate Water Retention

If your water retention is linked to a medical condition or necessary medication, consult your doctor for a personalized approach.

However, when it results from lifestyle habits, small daily changes can make a big difference.

1. Improve Your Diet

  • Drink at least 2 liters of water daily, preferably low in sodium

  • Eat water-rich, low-sodium foods, such as:

    • Cucumber, fennel, chicory, radicchio

    • Citrus fruits, strawberries, melon, kiwi, pineapple, apricots, peaches

    • Whole grains and legumes for better digestion

  • Avoid:

    • Salty foods and sodium-rich additives (e.g. bouillon cubes)

    • Processed and packaged foods

    • Cured meats, aged cheeses, snacks, and pickled items

2. Stay Active

Exercise improves blood and lymph circulation. Incorporate daily movement:

  • Walk instead of driving short distances

  • Use the stairs

  • Stand and stretch often if you sit for long periods

Recommended sports for reducing water retention:

  • Swimming

  • Running

  • Nordic walking

  • Gentle gymnastics or yoga

3. Try Lymphatic Drainage Massage

This technique targets lymph vessels to reduce swelling and fluid buildup, especially in the legs.

4. Use Natural Remedies

These herbal solutions support drainage and detoxification:

  • Birch sap: Helps eliminate retained fluids

  • Nettle: Stimulates lymphatic circulation

  • Pilosella (Hawkweed): Natural diuretic

  • Horse chestnut: Eases leg and ankle swelling

  • Essential oils (juniper, lemon, rosemary, sage, cypress): Use in baths or massages

🌿 Final Thoughts

Water retention can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but it’s usually manageable through a combination of healthy habitshydrationphysical activity, and targeted nutrition. Understanding the causes and learning how to intervene naturally and effectively can help you feel lighter, more energized, and in balance.

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