Foods that help reduce swelling and fluid retention

Cucumber, chayote, melon or watermelon are foods with diuretic properties that help combat bloating, especially if they are rich in water. What these foods do is increase urine production and reduce water retention, thus reducing body swelling.

In addition to consuming these foods, to reduce swelling it is also important to practice regular physical activity and drink 1.5 to 2 liters of fluids per day, such as water or fennel or horsetail teas, to ensure the correct hydration.

Foods to reduce body swelling

Some foods with diuretic properties that help reduce body swelling include:

• Radish and eggplant;
• Watercress and boiled beet leaves;
• Strawberry and orange;
• Apple and banana;
• Pineapple and avocado;
• Tomato and pepper;
• Lemon and onion.

Furthermore, excessive consumption of salty foods or processed or canned foods also increases fluid retention. See other tips to combat bloating by watching our nutritionist’s video:

However, water retention is not always caused by food, and can be caused by other more serious problems such as kidney failure, heart problems, hypothyroidism or organ failure. If the swelling does not reduce after a week, it is recommended that you consult a doctor to identify the source of the problem.

Foods to reduce belly bloating

When bloating is located more in the belly region, in addition to foods with diuretic properties, it is also recommended to focus on foods rich in fiber that help improve bowel function, such as:

• Chard or celery;
• Lettuce and cabbage;
• Arugula and endive;
• Tomato.

In addition, it is also recommended to consume a variety of teas, such as fennel, cardomom, dandelion or leather hat tea, which help combat constipation and water retention. Discover other teas that help combat fluid retention in Home remedies for bloating.

​Regular physical exercise is also essential to combat body swelling, see how to practice some exercises to eliminate belly swelling by clicking here.