Water retention can cause unpleasant symptoms including bloating and swollen ankles. You should always consult your doctor if you suffer from persistent or frequent fluid retention but in the meantime, here are some self-help tips for lessening the effects.
By Hilary Pereira
Drink more water
It may sound strange but one reason for fluid retention is dehydration, as the body feels deprived of water, so hangs on to the fluid it does have.
Raise your legs
Lying down with your legs elevated above hip height can help excess fluid drain from your legs and ankles, so take frequent rests if you can, or raise the e
Avoid salt
Salt encourages fluid retention, so choose reduced-salt foods, don’t buy processed ready meals and avoid adding extra salt to cooking or at the table.
Drink less alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol encourages the body to hold on to fluid, so avoid binge drinking, and make sure you have a few alcohol-free days a week.
Step up your protein intake
Eating protein encourages your body to shed excess fluid, which is why high-protein diets usually produce dramatic weight loss initially.
Take more exercise
Sitting or standing for prolonged periods encourages fluid to pool in the lower legs and ankles so try to move about or get out for a walk as often as yo
Drink dandelion tea
Dandelion tea is a natural diuretic that will help to reduce bloating.
You can find it in supermarkets in teabag form.
Eat more veg
Certain vegetables and fresh herbs are natural diuretics that can help combat fluid retention.
Try acupuncture
Some people have reported relief from fluid retention from acupuncture – and it can be therapeutic in other ways, too.
Eat more bananas
Bananas are rich in potassium, which is help to eliminate fluid retention.
Try them in smoothies, chopped over cereal or straight from the skin.