Get rid of water retention the natural way

Often confused with cellulite, water retention is the cause of swelling. With the arrival of sunny days, water retention and cellulite are becoming a major problem for many women. However, we cannot approach this problem without analyzing the causes of their appearance.

What is the difference between cellulite and water retention?

Under our skin we have a fatty layer panniculus supported by reticular tissue and collagen, and vascularized by microcirculation which supplies (or subtracts) energy in the form of fat to the body as needed. However, it can happen that the physiological balance deteriorates because of exogenous elements.

In these cases, the adipose tissue cells break down and release triglycerides into the intercellular spaces, which compresses the microcirculation network, greatly impairing its efficiency and promoting edema and “orange peel” skin. The circulatory and lymphatic systems also have the task of draining metabolic fluids and wastes. Impairment of these systems facilitates the retention of fluids and toxins in the tissues and, consequently, inflammatory processes in adipose tissue. People with cellulitis often also have peripheral circulatory problems such as venous insufficiency with insufficient lymphatic drainage. Fluid retention can also affect the presence of cellulite.

What is cellulite?

We know well the mechanisms of appearance of this form of cellulite, which results from an accumulation of fats (adipocytes) in the subcutaneous tissues. This pathology preferentially affects women and can result from one or more factors, including the most frequent: heredity, too much calorie intake (too much food or a diet too rich in carbohydrates and lipids), hormonal imbalances ( especially too much estrogen), insufficient venous and / or lymphatic circulation.

Note, even if this is not very good for morale, that moderate cellulite, also qualified as physiological, concerns about 95% of women. It is at puberty that it manifests for the first time, in its firm and sensitive form and then results in a skin that gradually becomes red and grainy on the thighs and buttocks. From late adolescence to menopause, cellulite becomes soft and flabby with the formation of subcutaneous balls. We then speak of dimpling or orange peel.

Certainly, there is a genetic predisposition (hereditary) but obesity and overweight are also considered by many to be an important element of risk and, in fact, although thin women are not exempt from this pathology, they still have more limited manifestations. In particular, we are talking about swollen and painful legs where the accumulated fluids cannot rise upwards and stagnate in the lower limbs.

What is water retention?

Talking about water retention is not synonymous with cellulite, but it is certainly a condition that can promote its appearance. Fluid retention is an imbalance between the venous and lymphatic systems and is characterized by the presence of generalized subcutaneous edema, due to insufficient drainage of fluids, favored by the tendency of cells to retain fluids, toxins and mineral salts.

Usually, water retention is caused by an imbalance between two specific mineral salts, potassium and sodium, which worsen the poor efficiency of the lymphatic system in its activity, also affecting the upper limbs and the abdominal area. The causes that determine the onset of fluid retention are usually related to poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. In the event that, in addition to microcirculation problems, real cellulite is added, this is a sign that other factors may also be involved: hormonal imbalances (such as excess estrogen), taking medications (such as birth control pills), periods of severe stress and nervousness.

Some naturopathic tips to avoid water retention:

Engage in healthy physical activity that promotes circulation and metabolism
Adopt a targeted and balanced diet
Opt for draining massages

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in this imbalance, both as a causal factor and as a possible remedy. It is therefore important to establish whether the edematous swelling is related to poor eating habits and / or overweight in order to intervene. For example, an excess of sodium increases water retention, as well as an excessive introduction of calories.

Cut down on flour and refined carbohydrates
Remove alcohol
Cut back on dairy products
Avoid excess saturated and trans fats

From a dietary point of view, it is good to get the help of a competent dietary specialist to establish the true caloric balance and the choice of an adequate dietary approach to support the microcirculation, the reduction of the inflammatory state. and efficient metabolism.

Which medicinal plants to fight against water retention?

Infusion of Ményanthe leaves:

In view of its bitter tonic properties, water clover effectively combats water retention. However, nothing beats a balanced diet that complements its effect, but is not a substitute for it.

Homeopathic dilution of Thuya occidentalis 5CH:

This strain helps in the fight against water retention at the rate of 2 granules three times a day and will allow for good drainage.

Green asparagus:

The asparagus season will begin soon, take the opportunity to cure it. Diuretics, asparagus are indicated in the renal elimination of water.

Orthosiphon EPS:

The orthosiphon facilitates the functions of renal and digestive elimination as well as the renal elimination of water. It is an adjunct to weight loss treatments.