This can lead to increased water retention. So by limiting our intake of carbs and keeping our blood sugar levels stable we might be able to shed some water weight. Carbohydrates themselves can also contribute to water retention issues.

This adds up. Contributes to fluid retention. On the hand fasting or following a low carb diet can decrease glycogen storage and reduce initial water retention.

Potassium and sodium are two electrolytes that have effects on the body. Interestingly increasing your potassium intake can counteract the effects of sodium.

Recent medical research suggests that higher potassium consumption leads to increased excretion of sodium which helps lower blood pressure and reduce kidney damage. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, avocados, spinach and kiwis. Increasing your water intake can actually help reduce fluid retention even though it may not seem obvious at first.

Prolonged fluid retention is often caused by dehydration or excessive sodium intake. When your bloodstream has levels of sodium the kidneys tend to retain water to maintain a balanced sodium level in the body. The best approach to increasing water intake and preventing retention is to drink water while avoiding dehydrating beverages, like coffee and alcohol.

As mentioned earlier, staying hydrated can help the kidneys regulate sodium levels, which in turn helps release retained water. There are fresh fruits you can choose from, especially melons and berries, that not only taste delicious but also provide hydration.

There are several supplements that could potentially help prevent the accumulation of water weight. For instance certain supplements formulated to boost calorie burning may also have an impact on glycogen metabolism thereby assisting in reducing water weight gain.

If your potassium intake from your diet is insufficient which is an occurrence according to an NIH fact sheet taking potassium supplements might be beneficial.

In addition specific supplements like magnesium or dandelion can serve as diuretics by promoting increased urination. However it is crucial to maintain hydration while using these supplements since they have the potential to cause dehydration. Taking part in a fasting detox program can significantly reduce water weight by depleting glycogen reserves.

Water weight, often called retention happens when the body holds on to extra water outside of the digestive system and bloodstream. This extra water can build up in the spaces between tissues in your body causing bloating, discomfort and sometimes pain. Water retention is usually temporary.

Can cause temporary fluctuations in body weight of up to five pounds. While it can be uncomfortable and affect your weight loss goals gaining water weight is generally not a concern.

Water retention can impact anyone. It tends to be more noticeable in certain individuals. People who consume amounts of salt, which encourages water retention may experience more pronounced water weight gain.

Hormonal changes like those during menstruation or pregnancy can also lead to water retention in women. Those with medical conditions such as kidney or heart problems may be more prone to fluctuations, in water weight.

Moreover individuals who follow a high carbohydrate diet or have lifestyles without regular exercise may experience increased water retention. Ultimately water weight can affect a range of people and its severity varies based on multiple factors.

The bodys natural mechanisms for balance usually prevent excessive accumulation of water weight but there are several factors that can contribute to retaining excess fluid.

The main reasons, for experiencing water weight gain include:. There are a variety of supplements and natural remedies that some people use to help alleviate water weight. Common choices include supplements like dandelion extract or cranberry pills, which may encourage increased urination and thus reduce fluid retention.

Additionally herbs such as parsley and horsetail are thought to have diuretic properties. Potassium supplements can assist in maintaining sodium levels.

Potentially decrease fluid retention. Ensuring hydration following a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity continue to be essential strategies, for effectively managing water weight.

According to the CDC consuming over 48 ounces of water in an hour can potentially pose a risk. Similarly it is possible to have imbalances in sodium or potassium levels although occurrences like these are rare.

In our world experiencing severely low sodium levels is extremely unlikely. Excessive intake of potassium is primarily linked to medical conditions such, as chronic kidney disease or the excessive use of potassium supplements. Many of us have experienced the frustration of retaining water weight.

It not affects the numbers on the scale but also leads to feelings of bloating, discomfort and swelling particularly in our legs and feet. If you notice symptoms, like edema lasting beyond a few days it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. Sometimes these symptoms could be indicative of a medical issue that requires attention.

Certainly water retention can sometimes be linked to food allergies or sensitivities. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation. Result in the body retaining fluids as part of its immune response. Identifying and avoiding foods that trigger these reactions can help alleviate fluctuations in water retention.

Typically water weight fluctuates between three to five pounds. Almost everyone experiences some level of retention. Notable signs of water weight gain include visible bloating, particularly in areas like the feet, hands and ankles.

You may also feel lighter or more agile than usual. Yes stress and emotional factors can indeed impact water retention. Stress has the potential to trigger changes that disrupt the bodys fluid balance resulting in temporary fluid retention.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques and self care can help mitigate this effect. Losing water weight is typically easier compared to losing weight. Therefore, for achieving long term weight loss outcomes it is important to concentrate on reducing body fat weight.

Mark Willson, holding a Ph. His specialized fields encompass addiction, anxiety, depression, as well as sexuality and interpersonal connections. Willson holds the distinction of being a diplomat for the American Board of Addiction and Anxiety, further serving as a certified counselor and addiction specialist.

Aside from his personal professional endeavors, Dr. Wilson has engaged in roles as an author, journalist, and creator within substantial medical documentary projects. Isabella Clark, Ph.

Alongside this role, she served as a research associate affiliated with the National Research Center. Her specific focus lies in unraveling the reasons behind the varying elevated susceptibility to stress-linked disorders between different genders.

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Water retention can be caused by several factors, including diet, medication and underlying health conditions. Conditions such as impaired kidney function or heart failure can contribute to increased fluid retention. The natural changes in hormones that happen during a womans cycle can lead to variations in weight.

Although these hormonal adjustments, marked by fluctuations in estradiol and progesterone levels may not have an impact, on overall body water they can influence the levels of interstitial fluid.

This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, puffiness, dark circles under the eyes, sore or swollen breasts and abdominal discomfort.

Weight fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can range from one to three pounds per day, which can be a significant amount of weight change. During the perimenopause phase women often notice levels of oestrogen in their bodies. This increase in oestrogen tends to cause them to retain sodium and water while the natural diuretic effect of progesterone decreases during this period.

Hormone replacement therapy could be an option, for perimenopausal women as it can assist in managing these hormonal fluctuations. The length of time it takes to resolve water retention and lose water weight depends on the underlying cause.

If the water retention is primarily due to factors such as dehydration and excessive salt intake, the solution can be quick and straightforward, often involving increased water consumption or adherence to recommended salt intake guidelines.

However, if the water retention is due to more complicated factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, the process can be longer and take weeks to resolve. However with a combination of exercise and efficient water weight control you can anticipate losing a comparable amount.

Determining the exact amount of water weight that can be safely lost can be challenging. The average adult male body contains approximately 42 litres of water.

Of this, approximately It is generally considered safe for an adult male to maintain a balance around the 42 liter mark. To avoid this its recommended to take an approach to weight loss aiming for one to two pounds, per week.

This measured strategy will not only allow you to safely lose excess water weight, but will also promote a healthier and more sustainable path to weight loss. Remember that maintaining proper hydration is critical for many bodily functions, and achieving the right balance is essential for successful and lasting weight management.

Although there are medications that can aid in removing excess fluid from your body it is advisable to use them only under the supervision of a healthcare professional, for specific medical reasons.

Over-the-counter diuretic supplements can be risky and are not recommended without professional advice. Instead, eat a balanced, low-sodium diet, stay hydrated, manage stress and get regular exercise.

These natural approaches are safer and will promote overall wellbeing while helping you maintain a healthy fluid balance. If you observe swelling or edema particularly in sensitive parts of your body it is advisable to consult a medical professional.

Moreover if you encounter difficulty, in breathing and hear crackling sounds during inhalation it is crucial to visit the emergency department without delay. Edema, which manifests as swelling caused by water retention especially in the hands and feet is a concerning indication that necessitates medical assessment.

It may indicate underlying medical conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease. Serious medical conditions such as heart failure often have a number of associated symptoms. Fluid retention, also referred to as water weight or edema happens when the bodys tissues accumulate an amount of fluid.

This condition can be attributed to factors such, as excessive sodium consumption, hormonal changes, dehydration and certain medical conditions.

A safe and effective approach to reducing water weight is to make dietary changes. Reduce your sodium intake, include potassium-rich foods such as bananas in your diet, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You should also be physically active regularly to get your body moving.

Are there any supplements or medications that can help safely reduce water weight? Certain diuretics and natural remedies available without a prescription might offer relief from excess water retention. Nevertheless it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare expert before utilizing products as they could potentially have adverse effects or interact with any other medications you are currently prescribed.

Remember to prioritize a rounded diet and healthy lifestyle, for long term outcomes. Can certain medical conditions cause persistent water retention and how should they be treated? Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or heart problems, can cause chronic fluid retention.

If you suspect an underlying medical condition, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plans tailored to your specific condition.

What is the typical timeframe for seeing noticeable changes when trying to safely lose water weight? The rate at which you notice changes differs from individual to individual.

Nevertheless by staying dedicated and committed most individuals tend to observe a decrease in water weight within a span of a days, to a week. It is crucial to have patience and maintain a lifestyle in order to achieve long lasting outcomes. There are several safe and effective ways to combat weight gain caused by water retention.

These include reducing salt and sodium intake, cutting back on carbohydrates, drinking coffee occasionally and getting enough quality sleep. Implementing these strategies can help you say goodbye to bloating. If you have any uncertainties or worries seeking advice from your doctor, for an evaluation and proper guidance is highly recommended.

Leonard Eberding is a pharmacist, an executive, and a board-certified specialist in medication therapy management. Eberding holds a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from SUNY Binghamton University and a doctorate in pharmacy and philosophy from the University of Florida.

He is also a contributor to numerous health magazines, where he uses his knowledge of pharmacogenomics to help patients get on the right medications the first time, rather than relying on trial and error. About Us. Contact US. Write for US. Terms of Use.

Privacy Policy. Medical Disclaimer. Advertising Disclaimer. Editorial Process. Facebook Instagram VKontakte Youtube. By: Leonard Eberding Ph. February 13, How to get rid of water weight: the best tips. Weight Loss.

The good news is: it will go away, and there is something that you can do about it. Keeping these things in mind can help you lose weight fast. If you are a weight loss specialist and want to learn how to reassure clients about water weight, this blog is also relevant to you!

This imbalance causes you to retain extra fluid in your tissues or between blood vessels. You might notice that your feet and ankles are a little swollen at the end of a long day of sitting or even standing in one position.

Thankfully, this type of water weight gain will usually be resolved on its own. Carbohydrates are stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen.

Every gram of glycogen typically stores grams of water with it. The lower carbohydrate intake reduces the amount of water stored in the cells, and any excess water is flushed out.

Therefore, the initial weight lost when someone dramatically reduces carbohydrate intake is really just water weight, and not actual fat. Some medications, like high blood pressure medication, NSAIDs, antidepressants, and chemotherapy medication can cause water retention3.

If you think your meds might be the problem, talk with your doctor to find out what you can do about it. Wait…you want me to drink MORE water when water is my problem?

Believe it or not, one of the ways that the human body responds to dehydration is to store up any water that it does have. The response is to flush out the excess water and return to normal. Drink enough water regularly to avoid water weight gain.

See this resource on Hydration and Fitness to learn more about the importance of water. Pay attention to food labels especially canned or processed food , and increase your intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins to replace their processed alternatives.

Potassium can be found in fruits and vegetables like leafy greens, beans, nuts, dairy foods, and starchy vegetables2. When you look at your plate, a quarter of your plate should be some type of non-processed carbohydrate, like whole grains or starchy vegetables.

If you find that you bloat with this amount, try reducing the amount of carbs slightly to see how your body responds. Make small tweaks to your nutrition, give your body time to respond, and find what works for you. See How Many Carbs Per Day to Lose Weight for additional context.

Even just walking is a great way to shed water weight.

Try eating more potassium-rich foods like leafy greens and potatoes. Potassium also helps you get rid of excess sodium. Physical activity is key to losing water weight. Not only will you sweat out some fluid, but you'll also need to rehydrate.

Moving around can also help reduce puffiness. Stop the car at regular intervals while driving long distances to get out and stretch your legs. Move around if possible while riding buses, planes, and trains. You can even do simple exercises with your feet and legs while sitting.

Regular exercise is important if you are pregnant, which increases swelling in the legs and ankles. Resting with your feet up also helps reduce that swelling.

Quality sleep is generally essential for your overall health. Experts advise that adults get about seven to nine hours of sleep per night. It turns out that sleep may help decrease water weight.

Research has found that your kidneys can effectively manage the amount of water and sodium they store when you get adequate rest.

Salty and sugar foods make your body hold onto more water than usual. Try cutting down on high-sodium foods, such as bacon, cookies, donuts, and ham. Replace sugary drinks with water flavored with pieces of fruit or cucumber slices. Cook from scratch when you can, using fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Read the label if you need to use a packaged item. Compare the sodium and added sugar contents across similar products. Your body stores excess carbs that it does not use right away in your cells as glycogen, which has three grams of water.

Most people on a 2,calorie diet need grams of carbs per day. Try swapping bread and pasta for meat, fish, or poultry to cut down on your carb intake. Excess cortisol, the stress hormone, may increase water weight. Cortisol levels directly correlate to antidiuretic hormone ADH levels.

ADH communicates with your kidneys to control the amount of water in your body. Electrolytes , like magnesium and potassium, help manage the amount of water that your body stores.

As a result, you might gain water weight if your electrolyte levels are out of balance. Water does not have electrolytes, so reach for a sports drink to replenish them.

You might also consider electrolyte supplements if you are significantly increasing or decreasing your water intake. Dandelion and magnesium supplements might help manage water weight. Research has found that dandelion has a diuretic effect. Magnesium is an electrolyte that helps control the amount of water inside your body.

Some evidence suggests that vitamin B6 supplements reduce bloating and decrease premenstrual syndrome PMS symptoms. More research is needed to know exactly how vitamin B6 affects PMS symptoms.

There are several factors that result in excess fluid in your body. Some of the most common causes include eating too much salt, sitting for long periods, and taking certain medications. Some blood pressure drugs, like calcium channel blockers, increase fluid retention. Certain anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids also cause your body to hold onto sodium and lose potassium, resulting in added water weight.

Talk to a healthcare provider to determine if your medication is the cause of water weight. They might be able to provide an alternative medication. Cortisol is best known as a stress hormone, although it's much more than that.

The hormone helps keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels stable, supports metabolism, reduces inflammation, and helps form memories. Although rare, fluid retention might be the result of elevated cortisol levels.

Cushing syndrome, for instance, might cause your body to hold on to sodium. This disorder occurs when tumors on the adrenal and pituitary glands release too much cortisol into your blood.

Some people with an underactive thyroid hypothyroidism may have swelling around their eyes. Estrogen and progestin, hormones in birth control pills , might increase fluid retention. This water weight is usually temporary and not significant. Still, you may want to talk to a healthcare provider about other birth control options if you are uncomfortable.

Fluctuating hormones cause many people to retain water the week before their period. You might also notice swelling in your breasts, causing tenderness, during that time. Swelling in the legs is also common.

Your circulatory system naturally becomes weaker as you age. The valves in the veins of your legs, which keep blood flowing upward to your heart, collapse a little. As a result, blood pools in your legs and causes fluid retention. Severe health conditions, like congestive heart failure, also cause poor circulation.

Pregnancy may cause you to gain water weight, especially as you get closer to your due date. You may see swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles. Hormones are partly to blame, but the growing fetus also places strain on your blood vessels.

Keep in mind that water weight may not all come off the minute after delivery. You might have developed a blood clot if you suddenly have swelling that hurts, especially in one leg. Although there are medications that can aid in removing excess fluid from your body it is advisable to use them only under the supervision of a healthcare professional, for specific medical reasons.

Over-the-counter diuretic supplements can be risky and are not recommended without professional advice. Instead, eat a balanced, low-sodium diet, stay hydrated, manage stress and get regular exercise. These natural approaches are safer and will promote overall wellbeing while helping you maintain a healthy fluid balance.

If you observe swelling or edema particularly in sensitive parts of your body it is advisable to consult a medical professional. Moreover if you encounter difficulty, in breathing and hear crackling sounds during inhalation it is crucial to visit the emergency department without delay.

Edema, which manifests as swelling caused by water retention especially in the hands and feet is a concerning indication that necessitates medical assessment. It may indicate underlying medical conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease.

Serious medical conditions such as heart failure often have a number of associated symptoms. Fluid retention, also referred to as water weight or edema happens when the bodys tissues accumulate an amount of fluid. This condition can be attributed to factors such, as excessive sodium consumption, hormonal changes, dehydration and certain medical conditions.

A safe and effective approach to reducing water weight is to make dietary changes. Reduce your sodium intake, include potassium-rich foods such as bananas in your diet, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You should also be physically active regularly to get your body moving. Are there any supplements or medications that can help safely reduce water weight?

Certain diuretics and natural remedies available without a prescription might offer relief from excess water retention. Nevertheless it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare expert before utilizing products as they could potentially have adverse effects or interact with any other medications you are currently prescribed.

Remember to prioritize a rounded diet and healthy lifestyle, for long term outcomes. Can certain medical conditions cause persistent water retention and how should they be treated? Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or heart problems, can cause chronic fluid retention. If you suspect an underlying medical condition, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plans tailored to your specific condition.

What is the typical timeframe for seeing noticeable changes when trying to safely lose water weight? The rate at which you notice changes differs from individual to individual.

Nevertheless by staying dedicated and committed most individuals tend to observe a decrease in water weight within a span of a days, to a week. It is crucial to have patience and maintain a lifestyle in order to achieve long lasting outcomes.

There are several safe and effective ways to combat weight gain caused by water retention. These include reducing salt and sodium intake, cutting back on carbohydrates, drinking coffee occasionally and getting enough quality sleep.

Implementing these strategies can help you say goodbye to bloating. If you have any uncertainties or worries seeking advice from your doctor, for an evaluation and proper guidance is highly recommended.

Leonard Eberding is a pharmacist, an executive, and a board-certified specialist in medication therapy management. Eberding holds a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from SUNY Binghamton University and a doctorate in pharmacy and philosophy from the University of Florida.

He is also a contributor to numerous health magazines, where he uses his knowledge of pharmacogenomics to help patients get on the right medications the first time, rather than relying on trial and error. About Us. Contact US. Write for US. Terms of Use. Privacy Policy. Medical Disclaimer.

Advertising Disclaimer. Editorial Process. Facebook Instagram VKontakte Youtube. By: Leonard Eberding Ph. February 13, How to get rid of water weight: the best tips.

How do I eat well in general? How can I prevent water weight? Moderate your salt intake Are you preparing for an event tomorrow. About coffee Coffee is like a edged sword, capable of both helping and potentially causing harm.

Get on the treadmill Are you looking for ways to quickly lose water weight in a day? What is water weight? What habits should I avoid if I want to lose water weight? Causes of water weight Water retention can be caused by several factors, including diet, medication and underlying health conditions.

Diet: Eating salty or high-sodium foods is a common trigger for increased water weight. Medications: Certain medications such as vasopressin antidiuretic hormone , muscle relaxants, Naprosyn, niacin, and lovastatin, among others, can contribute to water retention. Sleep deprivation: Insufficient and low quality sleep for individuals who have a tendency to stay awake late at night night owls can also result in feeling bloated in the morning.

It is suggested that adults strive for a seven to nine hours of sleep, per night in order to uphold their overall well being. Pathological conditions Conditions such as impaired kidney function or heart failure can contribute to increased fluid retention.

Menstrual cycle The natural changes in hormones that happen during a womans cycle can lead to variations in weight.

Perimenopause During the perimenopause phase women often notice levels of oestrogen in their bodies. How long does it take to lose water weight? How much water weight can you lose? Are there any supplements or medications I can use to lose water weight?

When should you seek medical advice? Frequently asked questions What exactly is water weight and what causes it to accumulate in the body? Water retention is also linked to protein deficiency, anemia , and the high requirement for vitamin and supplement intake. There is a specific kind of diet that is recommended for water retention which forces the body to eliminate excess fluid.

Water retention can also be the result of a medical condition involving organs such as the liver, heart, or kidneys. When an area of the body is not functioning properly, the body tends to retain fluid in that area of the body.

The body becomes unable to eliminate fluid properly when certain medical conditions are present. Standing for long periods of time causes fluids to pool in the legs, thus increasing water retention.

Hot weather can also lead to fluid retention because the body is less efficient at removing fluid from the body.

Certain medications can cause water retention as well, especially high blood pressure and steroid medications. When you restrict energy intake suddenly in order to lose weight, the body is forced to store carbohydrates and break down protein in the muscles. Because both protein and carbohydrates hold water in their cells, a loss of these nutrients results in water loss during a rapid weight loss diet.

People who lose weight quickly often regain weight within a few weeks because the body is replenishing itself with water. There is higher risk of fluid retention for women because of varying hormone levels.

Menopausal and premenstrual edema is caused by the effect of hormones on fluid balance. The hormonal changes for women before the menstrual period also cause retention and may result in symptoms such as breast tenderness. Reducing Water Retention. One way to reduce water retention is by increasing potassium intake by eating healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits.

These foods contain nutrients that help prevent blood vessels from leaking fluid in the tissue spaces. Eating food high in potassium is recommended rather than taking potassium supplements.

Aside from potassium, intake of Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine can also help. Skipping junk food and cutting down on pizza, canned soups and cereals or any food that might have hidden salt ingredients in it are also necessary compromises.

Reducing the consumption of high sodium foods is important because too much sodium in the blood can affect the tissues causing them to retain water. Some doctors also recommend drinking herbal teas since tea also helps reduce water retention. Lastly, wearing compression stockings which applies high pressure to the ankles can also be effective.

Women who experience water retention are more likely to be overweight. The problem starts when one begins a low-calorie diet. A low-calorie diet does not help reduce fluid retention; instead, this type of diet tends to make fluid retention worse.

There is typically not enough protein in a low-calorie diet, and protein is an important nutrient in preventing the abnormal changes in body tissues. Undigested food particles may get into the blood system and may stimulate the immune cells to generate histamine. Histamine is a substance that serves a significant role in allergic reactions because it dilates blood vessels.

Here are few tips to help reduce water retention: Decrease sodium intake. Avoid processed foods. Eat small meals in regular intervals. Regular movement is also necessary.

Activities such as bicycling and walking can also help in pumping out all the water or any other fluids in the ankles and legs. Physical exercise actually aids in the widening of the blood vessels.

Cranberry juice, in contrast, has a slight diuretic effect and may help flush out excess water. Choosing hydrating foods is a safe and healthy way to lose excess water weight and helps hydrate you. Take in more fluids, even in the form of hydrating foods, to ultimately help your body excrete water.

Hydrating foods include fruits and vegetables like:. Try eating more potassium-rich foods like leafy greens and potatoes. Potassium also helps you get rid of excess sodium. Physical activity is key to losing water weight. Not only will you sweat out some fluid, but you'll also need to rehydrate.

Moving around can also help reduce puffiness. Stop the car at regular intervals while driving long distances to get out and stretch your legs. Move around if possible while riding buses, planes, and trains. You can even do simple exercises with your feet and legs while sitting.

Regular exercise is important if you are pregnant, which increases swelling in the legs and ankles. Resting with your feet up also helps reduce that swelling. Quality sleep is generally essential for your overall health. Experts advise that adults get about seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

It turns out that sleep may help decrease water weight. Research has found that your kidneys can effectively manage the amount of water and sodium they store when you get adequate rest.

Salty and sugar foods make your body hold onto more water than usual. Try cutting down on high-sodium foods, such as bacon, cookies, donuts, and ham. Replace sugary drinks with water flavored with pieces of fruit or cucumber slices. Cook from scratch when you can, using fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Read the label if you need to use a packaged item. Compare the sodium and added sugar contents across similar products. Your body stores excess carbs that it does not use right away in your cells as glycogen, which has three grams of water.

Most people on a 2,calorie diet need grams of carbs per day. Try swapping bread and pasta for meat, fish, or poultry to cut down on your carb intake. Excess cortisol, the stress hormone, may increase water weight.

Cortisol levels directly correlate to antidiuretic hormone ADH levels. ADH communicates with your kidneys to control the amount of water in your body. Electrolytes , like magnesium and potassium, help manage the amount of water that your body stores. As a result, you might gain water weight if your electrolyte levels are out of balance.

Water does not have electrolytes, so reach for a sports drink to replenish them. You might also consider electrolyte supplements if you are significantly increasing or decreasing your water intake. Dandelion and magnesium supplements might help manage water weight.

Research has found that dandelion has a diuretic effect. Magnesium is an electrolyte that helps control the amount of water inside your body. Some evidence suggests that vitamin B6 supplements reduce bloating and decrease premenstrual syndrome PMS symptoms.

More research is needed to know exactly how vitamin B6 affects PMS symptoms. There are several factors that result in excess fluid in your body. Some of the most common causes include eating too much salt, sitting for long periods, and taking certain medications.

Some blood pressure drugs, like calcium channel blockers, increase fluid retention. Certain anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids also cause your body to hold onto sodium and lose potassium, resulting in added water weight. Talk to a healthcare provider to determine if your medication is the cause of water weight.

They might be able to provide an alternative medication. Cortisol is best known as a stress hormone, although it's much more than that. The hormone helps keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels stable, supports metabolism, reduces inflammation, and helps form memories.

Although rare, fluid retention might be the result of elevated cortisol levels. Cushing syndrome, for instance, might cause your body to hold on to sodium.

This disorder occurs when tumors on the adrenal and pituitary glands release too much cortisol into your blood. Some people with an underactive thyroid hypothyroidism may have swelling around their eyes.

Estrogen and progestin, hormones in birth control pills , might increase fluid retention. This water weight is usually temporary and not significant.

Still, you may want to talk to a healthcare provider about other birth control options if you are uncomfortable. Fluctuating hormones cause many people to retain water the week before their period.

You might also notice swelling in your breasts, causing tenderness, during that time. Swelling in the legs is also common. Your circulatory system naturally becomes weaker as you age. The valves in the veins of your legs, which keep blood flowing upward to your heart, collapse a little.

As a result, blood pools in your legs and causes fluid retention. Severe health conditions, like congestive heart failure, also cause poor circulation.

Pregnancy may cause you to gain water weight, especially as you get closer to your due date. Several conditions, diseases, and dietary or lifestyle habits may cause water retention. Examples include:. You may be able to help reduce water retention and promote fluid balance by making certain dietary and lifestyle changes, such as:.

Many factors could contribute to water retention. Though medical treatments may be necessary depending on the cause, several simple dietary and lifestyle changes may help reduce water retention and promote fluid balance. Following a balanced diet and limiting processed foods and refined carbs may be especially beneficial.

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. Water retention, known as edema, is swelling in parts of the body.

Learn the symptoms, causes, and remedies to try. Swollen feet can happen for a variety of reasons. Some home remedies may help ease the…. Diuretics are substances that increase the amount of urine you produce and help get rid of excess water.

Here's a list of the 8 best natural diuretics. Drinking water can help reduce appetite and make you burn more calories. Several studies show that water can help you lose weight. While they're not typically able to prescribe, nutritionists can still benefits your overall health.

Let's look at benefits, limitations, and more. A new study found that healthy lifestyle choices — including being physically active, eating well, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption —…. Carb counting is complicated. Take the quiz and test your knowledge!

Together with her husband, Kansas City Chiefs MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Brittany Mohomes shares how she parents two children with severe food….

While there are many FDA-approved emulsifiers, European associations have marked them as being of possible concern. Let's look deeper:. Researchers have found that a daily multivitamin supplement was linked with slowed cognitive aging and improved memory. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic?

How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Nutrition Evidence Based 6 Ways to Reduce Water Retention Edema. Medically reviewed by Katherine Marengo LDN, R.

Less salt More magnesium More vitamin B6 More potassium Dandelion Fewer refined carbs Other remedies FAQs Dietary and lifestyle changes may help reduce water retention and promote fluid balance. Share on Pinterest. Eat less salt. Increase magnesium intake. Studies show that these two supplements are very effective at relieving the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or PMS, including water retention.

They can also reduce abdominal bloating , swelling in the legs, and breast tenderness. It is best for someone to talk with a doctor before taking new supplements, as they can have side effects or interactions with other medications. Exercise lets the body sweat out extra water, which causes water weight.

A workout also stimulates blood flow and improves circulation, which can reduce fluid buildup throughout the body, especially in the legs and feet.

Exercise reduces water weight even more by burning through glycogen energy stores. However, replacing lost fluids is vital after any physical activity to avoid dehydration.

Water pills can treat mild fluid retention, as prescribed by a doctor. These pills work as diuretics , meaning they make a person urinate more often. Urination lets the body get rid of excess water and sodium.

Water pills are not recommended for long-term use. They should always be used as instructed by a doctor to avoid dehydration or mineral deficits. Anyone can experience fluid retention, but some risk factors increase the chances of it occurring. These include:.

Key causes of water weight include :. The American Heart Association recommends doing 2. Keeping the body active can prevent fluids from building up and reduce water weight. People should be sure to stay hydrated during exercise.

Women can plan for menstruation-related fluid retention by incorporating vitamin supplements, such as iron , calcium, and vitamin D , into their monthly routine. Water weight is rarely a cause for medical concern, although, in some cases, it can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.

Severe or serious water retention may include a tight appearance of the skin and skin that keeps a dimple when it is pressed. This is called pitting edema.

Fluid retention that occurs alongside coughing and shortness of breath, especially while lying down, may be a sign of fluid in the lungs or heart failure.

This requires urgent medical attention. Even if the water retention is not severe, it is always best to consult a doctor if a person is worried about their symptoms.

Tips for getting rid of water weight include reducing sodium and carbohydrate intake, drinking more water, exercising, and taking Vitamin B-6 and magnesium oxide supplements.

The length of time it takes to lose water weight may depend on the amount of water retention. Someone who retains more water may take longer to lose water weight. Strategies such as reducing salt and carbohydrate intake, drinking more water, and exercising may help a person to lose water weight.

Reducing salt and carbohydrate intake, keeping hydrated, and frequently exercising are all good ways to lose water weight and prevent it from returning. If water weight is accompanied by coughing and shortness of breath, especially while lying down, it could be a sign of heart failure.

A person should seek immediate medical attention. Find out how to lose weight that is due to medication using 10 methods.