By water retention we mean the accumulation of fluids in the intercellular spaces, due to an imbalance between the venous and lymphatic systems. If there are alterations in the functionality of the two systems, a stagnation of liquids may occur , with consequent swelling and edema, especially in the lower limbs. It is a phenomenon that causes not only cosmetic damage, but also serious pathologies such as kidney failure.
The causes of water retention can be hormonal or due to poor circulation . There are also some external factors such as the intake of oral, anti-inflammatory and cortisone contraceptives. In the absence of major pathologies, thegreater responsible for water retention and lifestyle. In fact, some unhealthy habits contribute to aggravate the situation: to limit the damage caused by water retention , it is necessary to avoid smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, excessive consumption of alcohol, coffee and salty foods, clothes that are too tight and heels that are too high.
Natural remedies to combat water retention
To counteract water retention you need to follow healthy daily habits that help keep the whole body healthy. Green light therefore to natural water, to a low-calorie, slightly salty and balanced diet.
The best weapon to combat water retentionhowever, physical activity remains. The movement, provided it is performed regularly and rationally, helps to reactivate and strengthen the microcirculation. The most suitable exercise in these cases is a healthy and peaceful walk, or a nice swim or a bike ride.
To increase diuresis and eliminate the stagnation of liquids , it is also advisable to act in a natural way, with the intake of active plant ingredients able to counteract water retention in a gentle but effective way:
- Horsetail extract (or Horsetail) is an effective diuretic and remineralizer, being rich in mineral salts, especially silicon.
- The purifying action of Pilosella is manifested by increasing the elimination of uric acid and chlorides, as it contains flavones, as well as reducing edema due to water retention.
- Orthosiphon , also called Java tea, has always been used in herbal medicine to increase the excretion of liquids, to facilitate weight loss and as an adjuvant in the treatment of urinary infections.
- The Goldenrod (or Solidago), thanks to the content in saponins and polyphenols, has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gramigna is a valuable plant in phytotherapy, because it promotes diuresis and cleanses naturally and without side effects.
- Birch is used in herbal medicine because it stimulates diuresis without negative effects, increases the elimination of uric acid, does not impoverish the body of mineral salts; and effective in reducing edema and in anti-cellulite action.
Supplements to eliminate excess fluids In
addition to the plant compounds useful for eliminating stagnation of liquids , it is advisable to supplement your diet with the intake of supplements based on Potassium and Magnesium to ensure a reintegration of the mineral salts that are lost through the increased diuresis. The natural products that fight water retention act in a targeted manner to eliminate the feeling of tired and heavy legs, reduce swelling, increase fluid drainage and reduce the stagnation of liquids.
Curiosity:
Water retention is not synonymous with cellulite. Cellulite is an alteration of the subcutaneous tissues that manifests itself with the so-called orange peel skin. Water retention and the tendency to retain fluids in the body. This can cause cellulite, but also more serious diseases such as kidney failure.