Bloating or fluid retention is the accumulation of fluid in your body, which mostly happens in the legs, face, ankles, hands, and abdomen. Bloating can be due to eating a lot of salty foods, standing for long periods of time, or PMS. However, bloating can also be sometimes caused by serious health problems like kidney disease or a thyroid disorder.

Here are some simple remedies for water retention:

Sodium. Sodium is not only the salt you sprinkle on your food, but it is also present in big amounts in a lot of the foods that you eat such as processed foods, cheese, seafood, and canned food. Reducing your sodium intake is one of the best methods to reduce your water retention.

Water. While to most people 8 glasses of water per day are enough, sometimes you may need to drink more than that. The most important thing is to stay hydrated, and how do you know if you are? Check the color of your urine: if it’s clear, you’re good to go, if it’s not, drink some more. This will greatly help with your bloating.

Asparagus.  One cup of asparagus contains around 400mg of potassium and virtually no sodium which is the primary mineral responsible for water retention. Be careful however, some people witness an increase in the odor of their urine after eating a lot of asparagus. 

Watermelon. Melon is about 91% water and contains high doses of potassium and vitamin C, which combined together form a great natural diuretic for treating water retention.

Tea and Coffee. Some people find that coffee and tea help decrease fluid build up in the body which is mostly due to caffeine, but be careful, excess caffeine is not a good idea if you have insomnia!

Other natural diuretics or water retention remedies include parsley, celery, onions, and eggplant. On top of that, it’s helpful to get moving when you feel bloated, physical activity will aid the lymphatic system in fluid management. 

Finally, if you notice your water retention is becoming chronic, you can consult Dietitian Christelle Bedrossian or you can order online Angiobiane or Mincidetox which help with cellulite and water retention.

Christelle Bedrossian
Dietitian-Nutritionist
Beirut, Lebanon