Tips to avoid fluid retention

Do you think you've gained weight this summer? Could it be water retention? During the summer months, we tend to accumulate more water. Find out if this is the case for you and discover tips to prevent water retention from all angles… for your body and face!

WHAT IS WATER RETENTION?

Fluid retention is a much more common problem among women. It's a matter of hormones, and the fact that women have thinner skin and less muscle mass also plays a role. Fluid retention occurs when our body is unable to maintain a balance between the fluids we ingest and those we eliminate through sweat and urine. The effect of this imbalance is swelling of the soft tissues and, consequently, an increase in weight and volume, and a feeling of heaviness.

SYMPTOMS OF FLUID RETENTION

Two or three extra kilos on the scale with no apparent explanation, swollen limbs, sudden changes in body volume, a skirt that won't close, jeans that are tighter than usual, socks that leave marks on the calf or ankle…

The sensations also give it away, and the most common symptoms are feeling heavy legs, skin that hurts to the touch and is much more prone to bruising with the slightest bump, and of course, urinating less often than usual.

At Beldon Beauty, we have a tool that allows us to differentiate between adipose tissue and fluid retention. It's a highly accurate measurement system that also provides us with data on the progression of the condition and its underlying causes.

Through this diagnosis, we can prescribe the best treatments, but in general terms, it must be said that diet and lifestyle are crucial when it comes to preventing and combating fluid retention.

HABITS THAT WORSEN WATER RETENTION

We continue with tips to avoid fluid retention. The habits that worsen fluid retention are very varied, but it usually stems from circulatory problems and worsens in summer, since the heat dilates the veins. However, certain lifestyle habits also contribute to it.

• Avoid excessive salt . Your meals should not exceed 2g of sodium per day (which corresponds to approximately 5g of salt).





• A sedentary lifestyle . Lack of exercise slows down circulation. Try to walk for at least half an hour every day.





• Clothes that are too tight . Showing off your figure is not a good idea. The looser your clothes, the better your circulation will flow.





• Being overweight . Every extra kilo of fat hinders circulation.





• Drinking too little water . It may sound contradictory, but less water in the body leads to greater water retention. When your body doesn't receive the necessary hydration, the tissues "understand" that they must retain water to avoid dehydration. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

ALTERNATIVES TO SALT - THAT DO NOT RETAIN FLUIDS -

Salt is the worst enemy of circulation, but there are alternatives that allow you to season dishes without sodium. To flavor your meals, you can substitute pepper, parsley, basil, thyme, mint, turmeric, oregano, cumin, or any other spice you like that adds flavor.

MINERAL BALANCE

• That's the key, and potassium and magnesium are the minerals that regulate fluids.





• Potassium is responsible for regulating the flow of fluids into and out of the body. Magnesium also helps to achieve this balance and, in addition, counteracts the effects of excess sodium.





• Fluid retention can be prevented by simply consuming 200 mg of magnesium per day.

THE DIET THAT COMBATS WATER RETENTION

There are foods that, although we don't associate them with 'salty', are actually high in sodium. This is the blacklist:

• Dairy products . Are you aware of the high sodium content in cheeses and yogurts? Always look for the 'low-salt' version.





• Sauces . You wouldn't believe how much sodium they contain. Try cutting out mustard, barbecue sauce, or ketchup.





• Canned foods . As well as pâtés or smoked products.





• Ready-made meals . Both these and processed foods require flavorings and additives that are loaded with sodium.





• Alcohol is harmful to the proper functioning of the circulatory system, kidneys, and liver.

The list of foods that should be part of your diet is this:

• Foods rich in potassium include fruits and vegetables, tubers, legumes, fish, shellfish, and meats. Vegetables and fruits have a high water content which, in healthy people with fluid retention, helps the kidneys function properly.





• Among the fruits that reduce bloating the most are watermelon, melon, pear, avocado, grapes, loquat, apple and peach, which increase urine production.





• Among the vegetables, carrots, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and mushrooms stand out.





• As well as celery, artichoke, asparagus, cucumber, zucchini, leek and onion, which are very diuretic.





• Lentils, beans, wheat germ, raw peanuts, soy, nuts, sesame seeds, milk, yogurt, hake, fresh salmon, fresh cod, trout, sardines, beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb also help to combat fluid retention.

THE BEST TREATMENTS FOR FLUID RETENTION

Among the tips for preventing fluid retention, consider using effective treatments. At Beldon Beauty, we know this is a common problem for many women, and we have the tools, both in-salon and cosmetic, to facilitate drainage and activate circulation.

DRAINAGE MASSAGE

Its gentle, rhythmic movements help activate the lymphatic vessels and nodes, eliminating interstitial fluid and lymph and regulating excess fluid buildup. These are superficial, very relaxing manipulations whose function is to stimulate the lymphatic system to expel toxins from the body. The pumping motions, applied to the main lymph nodes, activate the body, improving circulation and mobilizing lymph.

The benefits are numerous. It reduces inflammation, lightens the limbs, boosts the body's defenses, activates circulation, combats cellulite, edema and varicose veins, and drains and eliminates toxins.

AND FOR THE FACE…

Why deny yourself the benefits of proper lymphatic drainage? Activating the lymphatic system in the face involves redirecting retained fluids—which cause edema and swelling—to the lymph nodes located near the ears and eyes. Thanks to this technique, a lifting effect can be achieved without surgery, reducing under-eye bags and rejuvenating the overall appearance of the skin. At Beldon, we have an expert protocol for this.

FACIAL SCULPTING

The session begins with the application of the Kobido technique, a massage distinguished by its rapid, rhythmic movements designed to stimulate blood circulation, promote skin elasticity, and activate cell regeneration. Next, Gua Sha stones are introduced, which are gently glided over the skin to promote lymphatic drainage, reduce puffiness, and define the facial contours.

The results? An immediate lifting effect, oxygenation of the cells, a fatigue-free appearance, strengthened facial muscles, and fresh, puffiness-free skin. Bags and dark circles disappear instantly, and fine lines are also reduced.

Follow these tips to avoid fluid retention, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our team.