Water retention

What are the symptoms of water retention?

People with water retention may notice that a ring on their finger feels tighter than in the past, or they might have difficulty in putting on shoes. They may also notice a puffiness of the face around the eyes, or in the feet, ankles, and legs. When water retention symptoms are present, pressure on the skin, such as from the elastic band on socks, may leave an indentation that is slow to disappear.

Dietary changes that may be helpful

If you have been diagnosed with water retention, you should take a look at the amount of salt you consume on a daily basis. Most processed food contains salt, as do most produced ingredients you cook with. So there should not be any need to add extra salt as you prepare your dinner. High salt intake should be avoided, as it tends to lead to water retention and may worsen water in some people. A low-salt diet resulted in reduced water retention after two months in a group of women with unexplained edema. Your diet should be adjusted against water retention.

Lifestyle changes that may be helpful

If your water is affecting one of your limbs, the limb in question should be kept elevated whenever possible. This allows fluid to drain more effectively from the congested area. To decrease fluid build-up in the legs, people should avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving.

Vitamins and supplements for water retention alleviation

Commonly, treatment consists of managing the underlying condition, which may include inadequate nutrition; liver, heart, and kidney disease; or obstruction of blood or lymph flow. In some cases, a salt-restricted diet may be recommended. There are many vitamins and supplements that have been shown in studies to work against water retention. Just make sure your water retention vitamins and supplements do not get in the way of your other prescription medicines.