How to Avoid Water Retention with the Arrival of Summer

When summer arrives, it is common for edema to occur in the extremities, especially in the legs and ankles, and we notice that the body accumulates more fluid than necessary in the tissues. This is what is commonly known as water retention.

Although it does not affect everyone equally, there are certain factors that enhance fluid accumulation in the body:

• Heat: High temperatures can dilate blood vessels, facilitating fluid accumulation in the extremities.
• Dehydration: Contrary to what is believed, not drinking enough water can cause retention, as the body tries to conserve fluid.
• Lack of sleep: When we sleep, our lymphatic system filters and drains the tissues.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Staying seated or standing for a long time can hinder blood circulation, promoting swelling.
• Poor diet: A diet high in trans fats, sodium (salt), and ultra-processed foods causes the body to retain water.
• Excess caffeine and alcohol: They contribute to body dehydration and worsen fluid retention.

There are some tips that may be useful to stop or reduce it:

• Exercise regularly.
• Ensure good rest, if possible, 8 hours of sleep.
• Try to eat healthily, including ally foods such as:
• Potassium-rich foods: watermelon, kiwi, or citrus fruits.
• Magnesium-rich foods: leafy green foods.
• Flavonoid-rich foods: green tea, apple, onion, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
• Diuretic foods: asparagus, artichoke, celery, pineapple, horsetail, dandelion, and parsley.
• Remember to maintain constant hydration throughout the day.
• Find a moment to keep your legs elevated for a few minutes.
• Wear comfortable and loose clothing.
• In acute cases, compression stockings can be used, or taking a supplement prescribed by a professional, or undergoing body treatments such as pressotherapy or lymphatic drainage to help eliminate fluids.