Retention Prevention

Despite continued attempts to get our bodies in the shape we desire, sometimes healthy eating habits and a good exercise regime are still not enough. Before giving up hope and resorting to more drastic measures of weight loss, it may be a good idea to look at your body's possible water retention.

At any one time, our bodies can be retaining nearly three pounds of extra water weight. That's enough to tip the scales in a most depressing direction. And as the temperatures rise and the layers come off, a few extra pounds can mean the difference of flaunting that bikini and hiding underneath an umbrella.

Even more unfortunate is the uncomfortable feeling and bloating that often accompanies that extra bulge. But with a few simple lifestyle adjustments, you'll soon be zipping up those skinny jeans with ease!

Surprisingly, it is recommended that you drink more water. Make sure you're keeping your body hydrated (especially in the warmer months), and even more so during times you're likely to overindulge.

When you refuse to hydrate yourself properly, your body will attempt to maintain the water it has as much as possible. It is almost as if your system goes into hoarding mode, making sure you have enough water for as long as possible.

Because water makes up about 45-60% of our body weight, natural changes in your water levels can affect the number you see on the scale.

Sodium is also another leading cause of water retention and bloating. Although we're not supposed to have more than 6g of sodium each day, even just a teaspoon contains more than 2,000 mg! The average person in the UK consumes about 9-12g a day. Besides adding unflattering water weight, too much salt also carries the risk of raising your blood pressure.

So next time you're asking to pass the salt, try spicing up your food in different ways without sacrificing flavour. Add balsamic vinegar to salads, fresh garlic or onion to vegetables and meat dishes, or sauté vegetables with infused olive oil.