HealthDiet adjustments to combat oedema: More than just cutting salt

Diet adjustments to combat oedema: More than just cutting salt

How to get rid of swelling?
How to get rid of swelling?
Images source: © Licensor | Akhararat_W

18 April 2024 16:11

When our body retains water, leading to oedema and swelling, incorporating two dietary changes into our lives can play a crucial role in restoring our body's balance. Sometimes, simple adjustments can make a significant difference.

Confronted with the sudden emergence of oedema, unexpected weight gain, or swelling, it's vital to determine the cause through a consultation with a doctor.

However, if the cause is found to be non-disease-related and linked to cyclical factors (for example, the menstrual cycle), home remedies are available that can alleviate this condition. What, apart from ensuring ample hydration, can be beneficial?

Dietary ways to reduce edema and swelling

Fruits, vegetables, and herbs

To combat oedema and swelling effectively, it's important to include foods known for their diuretic properties in our diet. Specific fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, cranberries, and lemons, as well as vegetables like bell peppers, parsley leaves, and celery, are advisable. While these can be added to meals, consuming them in smoothie form may offer the best results.

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Incorporating nettle tea (especially on an empty stomach), dandelion root, horsetail, yarrow, and parsley leaves into your diet is also advised. Yerba mate is another great option! The choice of herbs should be customized to the individual, considering overall health and potential drug interactions.

Cut back on salt

Reducing salt consumption is crucial for alleviating swelling and oedema, as excess sodium in the intercellular spaces causes the body to retain more water to maintain ionic balance. People prone to oedema should cut down on their salt intake, benefiting not only in the reduction of oedema but also in improving their overall health, including better blood pressure management.

Reducing salt intake isn't just about using less table salt; it also requires watching out for hidden sodium in processed foods, ready meals, and certain sauces and condiments. This means closely reading the labels of food products and focusing on fresh, unprocessed ingredients.

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