Organs, tissues, cells, muscles, joints make up a complex system that requires constant hydration for optimal functionality. Beyond the body’s constant need for hydration, it should be borne in mind that excess fluid leads to a condition called water retention. The symptoms of water retention are almost unidentifiable, so a medical consultation is necessary for a clear diagnosis.
What is the symptomatology associated with water retention? What are the underlying causes and risks of water retention? How can the risks be prevented before medical advice is required? In most cases, water retention occurs as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle and diet based on excessive salt consumption. What changes are indicated in your routine to minimise the risk of disease for as long as possible?
Summary:
- Water retention, causes and symptoms – Why is it essential to protect the lymphatic system?
- Water accumulation in the body, an indication of unbalanced lifestyle – Solutions to counter harmful habits
1. Why is it essential to protect the lymphatic system?
What is water retention? As already mentioned, the body is predominantly made up of water. Tissues, the lymphatic system and certain organs contribute to maintaining healthy hydration levels. Dysfunctions in these areas block the process of water balance, encouraging the accumulation of fluid that swells tissues. Retention can affect any area of the body, but it is the lower and upper limbs that swell most.
What causes water retention?
First of all, chaotic lifestyle routines and unbalanced diet. Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, excessive salt intake or taking certain medications can cause water retention.
Problems of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for maintaining the necessary level of fluids in the body. Any dysfunction of the lymphatic system causes water retention.
Menstruation, thyroid disease, cirrhosis, kidney disease or heart failure lead to excessive fluid accumulation in the body.
The symptoms of the condition can easily be confused with those of other diseases. If you fall into the above risk categories, then pay attention to the following signs:
- Sudden weight gain;
- Stiffness in the joints;
- Tight skin with a shiny appearance;
- Swollen hands and feet;
- Change in skin colour;
- Hypersensitivity of limbs.
If retention develops in the lungs, then the main symptoms are as follows:
- Weakness;
- Coughing;
- Respiratory problems;
- Chest pain.
There are cases where the condition heals itself. Other times, a visit to the doctor is indicated to establish a personalised treatment.
2. Water accumulation in the body, an indication of unbalanced lifestyle – Solutions to counter harmful habits
Given that water retention is caused by a poor lifestyle through lack of physical activity and a correct diet, healthy habits need to be addressed. The condition can be easily prevented if it is not related to the above-mentioned diseases, hormonal problems or the possibility of pregnancy.
- Stimulates the lymphatic system
Use massage chairs as part of your long-term health plan.
Using chairs with reflexology in the sole stimulates the circulation of the lymphatic system. Thus, best rated electric massage chairs effectively remove excess fluids, preventing water retention. Lymph massage chairs and chairs are designed with hot air cushions for pressotherapy. So, electric full body massage chairs include warm air cushions that support the calves, while rollers massage the soles and stimulate the lymphatic system and blood flow.
- Increased magnesium intake
Magnesium is highly recommended for preventing water retention. You can seek a doctor’s advice on prescribing magnesium-based dietary supplements. Also include nuts, whole grains, green leafy vegetables or bitter chocolate in your diet. These are all valuable sources from which you can extract the magnesium you need.
- Provision of vitamin B6
Supplement the diet with nutritional supplements with vitamin B6 to maintain water balance in the body. If you prefer more natural options, then add peanuts, potatoes, chickpeas or bananas to your list of must-haves.
- No day without exercise
Sedentary lifestyles are responsible for many diseases that lead to water retention, including obesity. Maintain your body weight in optimal parameters with moderate exercise. You can opt for aerobics, light walking, jogging, dancing, pilates or stretching.
- Limiting dietary salt
Flavour your dishes with more body-friendly alternatives: pepper, rosemary, basil, thyme and other healthy herbs.
- Reduce sitting time
If you work at a desk, then don’t forget to take a 5-10 minute break every 50 minutes. Get up, take a few steps, take a short walk or do a stretching massage.
Establishing a body-friendly diet is the easiest solution that will save you from many inconveniences. Get into the habit of daily exercise, massage and excluding processed foods from your diet. Stick to mineral-rich foods, experiment with therapeutic massage, find your favourite sport and thus delay the symptoms of water retention.
