At this time of the year, with the weather a little warmer we often find customers are looking for a remedy to treat fluid retention. Symptoms are usually swelling of the limbs, abdomen, breasts and sometimes face. Fluid retention is caused by an imbalance in the body’s transfer of fluids. This can be caused by sitting or standing for long periods, hormonal changes in women during menstruation and pregnancy, poor circulation such as varicose veins or blood clots or even environmental factors such as high altitudes or heat.

When looking for a solution for fluid retention we would often suggest an increase in fluid intake. Often people will assume increasing their intake of water will increase fluid retention but in fact when the body is dehydrated it will go into survival mode and begin storing fluids. Increasing water and fluid intake encourages the release of water which helps prevent fluid retention. As we all know it is important to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day to help remove toxins and impurities from our bodies. When we are hot and perspiring as we can be in this warm humid weather it is even more important.

It is also important to address our diet. Consuming high amounts of salt will increase blood volume consequently requiring extra fluid to maintain the sodium/fluid balance. This not only results in increased fluid retention but also possibly an increase in blood pressure. Once again at this time of the year we are probably consuming even more salt than normal with snacky foods being consumed with of course more alcohol than normal which can cause even more dehydration. Processed foods and fast foods also have a high salt content. On the positive side eating potassium rich food such as bananas can help the body shed extra fluid.

As well as following these dietary tips, we can look at taking a herbal diuretic supplement which may contain herbs such as juniper, celery and dandelion. To assist with fluid retention caused by menstruation Vitamin B6 can also be added to these herbs.

If you would like more information on this problem call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone on 44729737. Don’t forget to tune into Bev on Go Get Healthy on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.30pm.