Five reasons for water retention by the body

If certain parts of your body are swollen, there is a possibility that larger amounts of water are retained in the body. Although the human body is made up of 85 percent water, water retention in our bodies can cause great discomfort.

According to nutritionist Brittany Dunn, excess fluid passes through the kidneys and is excreted through urination, however, sometimes excess fluid can get trapped between the organs and the skin. These are some of the reasons why you have excess water in your body.

Consume a lot of salt

Salty foods can result in 'water weight'. “Typically, this is a common thing that can happen as the salt will draw the water out, causing it to go to places you don't want it to go. But this is usually a short-term issue," explains nutrition expert Toby Amidor, quotes Eat This Not That.

Menstrual cycle time

The menstrual cycle can also be to blame for weight gain. Many women tend to retain water right before and during their menstrual cycle. This is due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, which can also lead to breast tenderness.

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Consume a lot of carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are another reason why the body can retain excessive amounts of water. Water retention is influenced by energy reserves, i.e. glycogen, which stores three to four grams of water per gram. When you stop eating carbohydrates, your body uses glycogen for energy. By using stored glycogen, excess water is removed.

You are dehydrated

When you are dehydrated, the body wants water. Therefore, it is appropriate that dehydration results in water retention to restore balance. According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms of dehydration include less urination, dizziness, fatigue, extreme thirst, and dark urine.

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You have problems with the thyroid gland

An underactive thyroid is a health condition where the thyroid is not working properly and your doctor may prescribe a diuretic to help remove excess water. If you think you have problems with the thyroid gland, be sure to contact your doctor in order to receive adequate treatment.

You have venous insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins do not work as they should, which usually results in visible water retention in the legs, especially in the lower part. Venous insufficiency can lead to discomfort, darkening of the skin and potentially lead to infection. This tends to happen when you sit or stand for long periods of time. /Telegraph/