Do you suffer from water retention? Our bodies contain a network of vessels that are designed to drain fluid from nearby tissue, flushing it back into the bloodstream. Known as the lymphatic system, it plays a key role in the our bodies ability to regulate internal fluid levels. But it’s not uncommon for the lymphatic system to become overwhelmed or affected by other circumstances that decrease the efficient function of this system. The good news is that most cases of water retention are minor and pose no serious risk to a person’s health. With that said, it can still trigger some pretty unpleasant symptoms. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms of fluid retention include the following:
- Swollen feet and/or ankles
- Body aches
- Stiff joints
- Sudden fluctuations in weight
- Pressing against the skin may cause it to “indent” for a short period of time.
Massage therapy is a very beneficial way to promote a healthy lymphatic system, and it’s a safe and effective way to treat water retention without medication. A professional massage therapist can manipulate your muscles and other soft tissues as well as the lymphatic vessels in order to mobilize fluid through the lymphatic system and to encourage proper drainage of excess fluid. As a result, many people feel the urge to urinate after having a massage. This is completely normal and even beneficial, as it flushes toxins and waste from your body.
In addition to massage therapy, there are a few other solutions to help water retention. For starters, you can limit your consumption of salty, sodium-rich foods. The average American consumes roughly 3,400 mg of sodium per day, which is more than twice the amount recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration. Sodium is a key nutrient that our bodies require to stay healthy, but consuming an excessive amount may cause your body to retain water.
Staying active may also discourage your body from retaining water. Strive for a minimum of 30 minutes of medium-intensity aerobic exercise per day. This combined with a low-sodium diet and massage therapy will allow your body to flush fluids more easily.
Give me a call today to learn how you can get back on track to better health!
