How to Remove Water Retention

The body expels water through urination. In the case of water retention, the body holds on to water, and this often results in extra weight gain. There are numerous causes of water or fluid retention, and certain medications, like prescription steroids and hormonal birth control pills, can trigger water weight. While a bloated feeling may become a regular annoyance, there are tricks to flush out extra water and reverse fluid retention.

Instructions

• 1

  Check your medications. If water retention starts after beginning a new type of medication, consult with your doctor and ask for a prescription for an alternative drug, if possible.

• 2

  Increase physical activity, advises MotherNature.com. Stimulate blood circulation and perspiration through a regular exercise program. Jogging, power walking, biking and aerobics produce sweat and help the body lose extra water.

• 3

  Drink more. Not enough fluids also can induce water retention due to dehydration. When dehydrated, the body goes into survival mode and retains fluids. Increase your intake of water, fruit juices and other decaf beverages, such as herbal teas.

• 4

  Switch to a sodium-free diet. Remove salt or sodium from your diet completely or cut back to no more than 1,500 milligrams a day to help stop water retention, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 5

  Snack on fruits and vegetables. These healthy foods have a higher-content of water, which helps stimulate the kidneys and promote frequent urination. Good choices include grapes, watermelons, lettuce and cantaloupes.