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Water Removal Methods

Bloating and water retention is a common problem that effects many people, regardless of age or gender. Water retention can be caused by a number of things, such as electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, over-consumption of substances such as sodium, caffeine, and alcohol, and dietary changes. It is important to understand that water retention is a temporary and easy-to-fix problem. However, the solutions may be somewhat surprising.

  1. Drink Water

    • Drinking water, surprisingly, is the No. 1 solution to water retention and bloating problems. Drinking water helps the body flush toxins and release extra weight from cells. The body retains water in its cells to avoid dehydration and protect against imbalance of electrolytes and sodium. Therefore, when you drink enough water, the body releases water from cells and bloating decreases. Experts suggest that drinking 60 to120 oz. of water per day is a healthy way to reduce water weight and to flush toxins from your cells.

    Avoid Toxins

    • Toxins in certain foods and substances cause bloating by increasing the problem outlined in Section 1. For instance; alcohol dehydrates the body, causing cells to cling to extra water and therefore bloat the body. Too much alcohol without enough water causes the hands, belly, feet, ankles, and even the face to swell. Like alcohol, sodium rich foods, cigarettes, and refined sugars and flours can cause bloating. To reduce water retention, avoid these foods and substances or limit them as much as possible.

    Carbohydrates and Water Retention

    • For many, carbohydrate-rich foods cause the body to hold extra water weight. Foods such as bread, crackers, sodas, sweets, pastries, and other carb-laden treats can produce fluid-retention and cause the muscles to hold extra water. Sticking to a healthy diet of proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats can help keep the body in balance and avoid the unnecessary holding of water in the cells. Antioxidant and water-rich foods such as leafy greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and other vegetables are also said to help reduce fluid retention as they supply plenty of water to the body.

    Healthy Sleep and Regular Exercise

    • Adequate sleep and regular exercise are two more ways to decrease bloating and water retention. Sleep helps the body restore its muscles and decreases puffiness of the skin, face, and eyes. Similarly, exercise helps the body flush out toxins through sweat and builds healthy lean muscle which keeps the metabolism revved. These processes, together, keep the body metabolizing food properly and flushing toxins. To recap, reduction of fluid and water weight is simple if you follow easy steps toward health. These steps include drinking water, exercising, eating healthy antioxidant-rich produce and vegetables, and getting adequate sleep. Cut down on alcohol, tobacco, refined flours and sugars, and other toxin-laden foods and substances. These easy steps will help your body flush toxins and release extra water weight.

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