Not sure how to eliminate liquids? This problem can cause swelling in your hands, feet, ankles, legs and belly..
Here you will find different tips and tricks to eliminate both internal and external problems of fluid retention.
Why are liquids retained?
Fluid retention can have different causes. Pregnancy and menstrual periods cause some women to retain water. People who are physically inactive for long hours (for example in the office, in front of the computer) can also be affected.
Severe fluid retention can be the result of serious illness, which is why, if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to initiate the relevant treatment.
These are usually cases of swelling in which there is no underlying health problem.. Mild fluid retention can be easily remedied by knowing a few tricks on how to remove fluids.
How to remove fluids naturally
keep on moving
The body has everything it needs to eliminate fluids on its own, of natural form. But you have to contribute. Consider getting your body moving before trying diet and natural remedies, as in many cases that is enough.
Something as simple as walking can be enough to prevent fluid build-up. In general, any type of sport practiced on a regular basis helps keep the digestive system functioning. There are small gestures in your day to day that can also lead you in that direction, such as using the stairs instead of the elevator.
Drink more water
Paradoxically, drinking more water is often pointed out as one of the keys to not accumulating fluids. So if you suffer from this problem, it's a good idea to ask yourself if you drink enough water throughout the day.
Put your legs up
Putting your legs up for a bit each day is considered to have numerous benefits. One of them is the elimination of liquids, especially those fluids accumulated in the lower extremities. This exercise can be done by supporting the legs on the wall or by holding them in the air.
How to eliminate liquids in the diet
Reduce salt
Reducing your salt intake is the most common strategy to eliminate fluids. The reason is that diets high in sodium can cause the body to retain water. According to research, success depends on the individual, but in any case it is never a bad idea to control your salt intake. Cutting back on processed foods is a great starting point.
Take more magnesium
Increasing magnesium intake can help reduce fluid retention in women with premenstrual symptoms. It is a very important mineral, which participates in hundreds of processes that keep the body running. You can find it in nuts, whole grains, dark chocolate or green leafy vegetables. It is also available as a dietary supplement.
Take more vitamin B6
Like magnesium, vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce fluid retention in women with premenstrual symptoms. You can find this nutrient, so necessary for the body, in bananas, potatoes and walnuts, as well as in meat.
Take more potassium
Potassium undoubtedly knows how to eliminate fluids efficiently. Associated with heart health, this mineral reduces sodium levels while increasing urine output. Bananas are the most popular potassium-rich food, but there are many other sources, such as beets, spinach, or orange.
Avoid refined carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates trigger a series of processes that ultimately lead to an increase in the volume of fluids in the body. Table sugar is an example of refined carbohydrates, as well as white flour, and any food that is made with it.
How to remove liquids with plants
Dandelion
Dandelion is one of the most widely used natural diuretics in traditional medicine. Its operation is simple: this plant makes you urinate more often, which can reduce fluid retention. You can find this plant with draining properties both in capsules and in sachets to prepare infusions.
Horse tail
Another plant with diuretic effects worth considering is horsetail. Its intake may also be beneficial in treating urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections..
Fennel seeds
Fennel tea has numerous health benefits, including the elimination of liquids and the reduction of inflammation of the belly. Fennel seeds can be found in health food stores in presentations of between 30 and 100 grams.
More natural remedies
The following are other natural remedies commonly used in traditional medicine to combat fluid retention:
- Parsley
- Nettle
- Blueberries (juice)
- Garlic
- Corn stigmas