6 Ways to Reduce Water Retention (Edema)
1. Eat less salt
If you often eat foods that are high in salt, such as many processed foods, your body may retain water. In fact, these foods are the biggest dietary source of sodium
Sodium binds to water in your body. While research on the topic is inconclusive, decreasing your salt intake may help reduce water retention.
Magnesium is a very important mineral. It’s involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions that keep your body functioning properly
2. Increase your magnesium intake
Moreover, increasing your magnesium intake may help reduce water retention.Though more research is needed, some studies suggest that magnesium may help reduce water retention associated with PMS.
3. Get more vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a central role in red blood cell formation, protein metabolism, brain function, and immune health
It also regulates fluid balance and may help reduce water retention.Vitamin B6 may help reduce water retention in those with PMS, but further studies are needed.
4. Eat more potassium-rich foods
Potassium plays a key role in fluid balance and may reduce water retention by increasing urine production and decreasing the effects of sodium.
5. Try dandelion
Dandelion may help reduce water retention, especially when taken as a leaf extract. Still, more research is needed.
6. Limit your refined carb intake
Eating refined carbs may contribute to water retention in several ways, so it’s best to replace these carbs with high fiber whole grains.
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