Water Weight

Understanding water weight: Our bodies are composed of approximately 70% water, throughout the day as we consume foods and water– the body will become slightly heavier than it was before anything was consumed (one cup of water is equivalent to approximately 1/2 pound).  The body has a complex system of hormones that aid in the regulation of  keeping the body’s fluid volumes in tack, water retention occurs (also called “Water Weight”).

Water Retention Occurs from: 

Dehydration: from alcohol, caffeine, carbonated sodas, sugar, salt and not hydrating enough with water.

Inactivity: When the body is not moving, blood pools–and everything becomes stagnant.  Exercise and physical activity not only aid the body in detoxing through sweat; exercise elevates the heart rate and increases the speed at which blood flows and circulates throughout the body; stimulates the lymphatic system (removal of tissue fluid), which helps to flush toxins from the body.

Pre-menstruating or Menstruating: approximately 85% of women have “water retention” during their periods, according to the Mayo Clinic due to hormonal imbalances.  Some natural ways to prevent bloating during this time: eat smaller meals, avoid salt, incorporate calcium and magnesium.

Avoid water retention:

Drink water! Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 glass every 1/2 hour throughout the day (avoid gulping or chugging too much at once).

Avoid sodium intake (canned soups, bouillon cubes, soy sauce and salad dressings, cheese, snack foods such as chips and pretzels, sandwich meats are all big culprits.

Eat foods high in Potassium such as avocado, cocoa powder or dark chocolate, greens, nuts and pistachios, dried apricots, medjool dates, pumpkin, sunflower and flax seeds, salmon, halibut, and tuna.