Causes Of Water Retention
Some well-known causes of water retention include heart or kidney problems. These are due to a reduced ability of the heart or kidneys to do their job, and can cause severe swelling of the legs and ankles.
Weak circulation in the leg veins is probably the most common cause of water retention in legs and ankles. This occurs in pregnancy and causes swellings like those shown in the video. In older people this problem may also result in varicose veins.
A blockage or congestion of the lymphatic system can cause a type of water retention known as lymphoedema (lymphedema), which is common after some types of surgery, for instance. People who spend a lot of time immobile, e.g. those in hospital beds, wheelchairs, or on long-haul flights, even “couch potatoes” can develop water retention because without regular movement, it is difficult for your lymphatic system to drain excess fluid out of your tissues.
Premenstrual water retention is also common, and is caused by the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle.
Salt
One of the main causes of water retention is eating too much salty food. The main component of salt is sodium, which the body dilutes with water if too much of it is present. Salt makes you thirsty, and your body will hold on to this water. Reducing the amount of salt in your diet will help you to release a little water retention but not usually more than about 2 lbs in weight. Even a relatively salty diet, although it can be harmful in many ways, will not normally cause gross water retention.
Lesser-known Causes
Hormones and Medicines
High levels of certain hormones can also make your body hold on to water. These include insulin, which is needed to process sugar; cortisone, which is produced when you are under stress; and the female hormones oestrogen (estrogen) and progesterone. The water-retaining effect is caused by the effects which these hormones have on sodium levels in your body, and on the hormones which govern how your kidneys work. Certain prescribed medicines such as the contraceptive pill and some painkillers can affect levels of these hormones.
Water retention which is caused by hormones can be spread around the body but often affects your tummy most of all. Women can also get water retention in the breasts, which causes breast tenderness and swelling.
Wastes and Toxins
Cellulite, which mostly affects women’s thighs, is a form of fat complexed with retained water. Sometimes it holds so much water that it is swollen and painful to the touch. Metabolic wastes and toxins such as pesticides which the body cannot easily release tend to be stored in this fat. It is thought the causes of the water retention in cellulite are either irritation and swelling due to these toxins, or results from the body’s attempt to dilute them.
Low-Calorie Diets
If you have water retention you are very likely to be overweight. But overweight people tend to go on a low-calorie diet. A low-calorie diet will unfortunately not get rid of water retention – it can actually make it worse, especially if you eat less than 1,200 Calories a day for months or years. This is because you may not have enough protein in your blood to draw excess water out of your tissues. This type of water retention can cause generalised puffiness but if severe can give you a swollen tummy.
Histamine
Histamine causes water retention leading to bloating and tummy swelling. If you have ever been stung by an insect or developed an itchy red lump after a mosquito bite, you will be familiar with the effects of histamine. Histamine widens the joins between the cells which line your smallest blood vessels, known as your capillaries. This makes them leak both water and protein into your “tissue spaces” – the area surrounding the cells of tissues such as flesh, organs and intestines. If the protein cannot be removed from your tissue spaces, it will stay there, attracting water.
Poor digestion and taking antibiotics can cause changes in your intestines which lead to a lot of histamine being produced in this area. Sometimes eating yoghurt and probiotics can help to reduce this problem, but if it has been going on for some time these measures may not be effective on their own.
Drinking less fluid will not cure water retention. One of the causes of water retention is dehydration due to not drinking enough water.
Many types of water retention can respond to dietary measures. The Waterfall Diet has been designed by British nutritionist Linda Lazarides to help release excess water weight as quickly as possible. It can also help to treat health problems associated with water retention, such as swollen legs, arthritis, high blood pressure and PMS. (More information.)
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Comments
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time July 18, 2009 at 7:00 pm
You need to do the standard Waterfall Diet programme plus read the section in the book about the causes and treatment of cellulite. (This section is only in the printed book, not in the E-guide). It is definitely possible to reduce cellulite as other people have done it.
Comment from Maggie
Time August 14, 2009 at 3:03 am
I am 51yrs old and had menopause for about 3 yrs. Recently I bought a gadget which converts water to ‘alkaline’ but experience huge water retention after a week. Is that really the cause or some underlying health problem? I exercise 3-4x a week. hardly eats any meat, only fish and veg and fruits. Pls advise. Thanks
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 14, 2009 at 8:49 am
It certainly sounds like too much of a coincidence that you got the water retention as soon as you used the gadget. I’m not familiar with these gadgets, but anything which gives you water retention is probably not a good idea to use.
Comment from Khristy
Time August 14, 2009 at 1:09 pm
I am 40, I have been cutting down on meat because I have gallbladder pain. I do have it occassionally, (chicken usually), I have been eating cottage cheese, fruit, lettuce, bread. I am keeping my calories lowish, probably between 1200-1500 calories for a month now. About once a week I will have pizza or some other little splurge, but not more than that. I have not only not lost weight, I am getting puffier and had to take my rings off today. Frankly, I am concerned. Not to mention the sharp pains in my upper abdomen still come and go pretty regularly.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 14, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Water retention can be a complex problem. It’s great that you work hard to eat a healthy diet. You have probably also tried the “eat less salt drink more water” advice that everyone gives. But the truth is that there are at least seven different causes of this problem.
Comment from Jill
Time August 16, 2009 at 1:33 am
Thirteen years ago I lost 140 pounds through diet and exercise- a loss I maintain (other than water retention!) with a weighed and measured no sugar/no flour *very* healthy food plan and a good exercise plan.
Q: Do people with extreme weight loss and/or extra skin have more propensity toward water gain? If yes on the extra skin, does skin removal surgery help?
Also, when you said estrogen and progesterone can be a cause, is it the relative amount of each with respect to the other, or the actual excess of either?
Thank you.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 16, 2009 at 8:18 am
People with extreme weight loss do not normally have more propensity towards water gain. But your metabolism or digestive system may have suffered as a result of your previous diet, and this has maybe laid down the foundations for any water retention you have now. Regarding estrogen and progesterone the problem can be either an excess of estrogen in relation to progesterone or an actual excess of estrogen.
Comment from Jill
Time August 16, 2009 at 10:35 am
Thank you so much! May I ask a follow-up question?
One thing on the estrogen that confuses me- I had two miscarriages at 9 weeks, 1 year apart. With each pregnancy I gained 5 pounds, presumably water from hormonal changes for I never added any calories. But, after the miscarriages and the hormonal drops, it just never would come off. Does water from past hormonal surges stay on until you take phase 1- type action? Or does the stubborness speak to a different cause?
God Bless You for your work. Everyone just wants to hand you a diuretic.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 17, 2009 at 5:46 pm
Hormones can affect body weight by changing the metabolism as well as by encouraging water retention. This weight is pretty hard to lose so it’s no wonder you have had problems. But diuretics are not a good idea as they can make the problem worse.
Comment from Melanie
Time August 18, 2009 at 6:09 am
I have been diagnosied with Lymphodema but was told that I had a very rare form of it! I started swelling after my daughter was born in 1985 and it has increased dramatically! i have tried compression hose, lymph massage and nothing is working for me please help! I am overweight for a reason unknown! i do not eat very much at all and have been told that i should be extremely skinny because i do not eat alot and when I do eat it is mostly chicken or fish, and lots of vegetables! i do and have always drank alot of soda’s but now i drink diet soda’s but have limited it to two a day now.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 18, 2009 at 7:33 am
There is always a reason why the body retains water, but this reason varies from person to person. If you are already eating mostly chicken or fish and vegetables you should not find it too hard to do the waterfall diet. I’d recommend reading the book to find out as much as possible about this condition.
Comment from martha anani
Time August 18, 2009 at 1:28 pm
I would like to know if drinking fresh oranges cause water retention. I usually squeeze six oranges in a cup to give me a glass of orange. Would it be better I drink water instead of oranges in the evening before going to bed so as to eliminate enough water from my body in morning?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 18, 2009 at 5:48 pm
Orange juice does not normally cause water retention. But if you suspect anything of causing your water retention you can always try avoiding it.
Comment from Radhika
Time August 20, 2009 at 5:33 am
Swelling on my legs, ankles stomach. I have checked my kidney function which comes normal and i am diabetic but sugar is normal pls suggest what i have to do to make my water retention come down in my body
thanks
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 20, 2009 at 7:24 am
If your doctor has given your heart and kidneys the all-clear, then you will find that the Waterfall Diet book will give you very comprehensive self-help advice and is the cheapest way to deal with this problem. See the links in the right-hand panel.
Wishing you well.
Comment from Gracious
Time August 28, 2009 at 6:12 pm
I am a 36 year old man with kidney transplant and other underlyning health conditions e.g. diabetes etc. Six months after kidney transplant, I realised that my belly was growing. After two years, my belly was huge like a pregnant woman. I also noticed that my breasts had grown even large like a woman who is breastfeeding. I spoke to my GP and kidney specialist and they told me that this could be side-effects of immunesuppressant medication (steroids) that I take to prevent kidney rejection. When I read your articles, I remebered that I used to have fluid retention when I was on dialysis. My question is: could water retention causing my huge belly and large beasts or are steroid medication causing water retention which in turn is causing my huge belly?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 28, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Steroid medications can certainly cause the symptoms you describe. This is known as Cushing’s syndrome. If you google “immunosuppressants and Cushing’s syndrome” you will find some more information. The extra weight is fat rather than water retention.
Comment from jose
Time September 6, 2009 at 9:19 am
i am 22 yrs old suffering from hypertension since i was 16.
for the past 6 months although i drink a lot of water my urine output is very less and is dark yellow in colour.i also ge a serious vomiting tendency & at one time vommited seriously.the doctors have ruled out kidney & thyroid problems.i even underwent an endoscopy,colonoscopy & cervical spine MRI which were all normal.my stomach bloats up at times.pleasa let me know what i should do
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time September 6, 2009 at 7:53 pm
If your doctor says the problem is nothing medical then you may have idiopathic oedema (the medical term for water retention of unknown cause). This often responds well to the Waterfall Diet so I recommend that you start reading the book as soon as possible and carry out the diet and the self-test procedure described in the book.
Comment from Mike M.
Time September 13, 2009 at 2:48 am
I am post treatment from pegasys interferon combo treatment, and have been having some bad swelling all over my body. I hope it’s nothing serious, but it sure seems that way when you see your fingers swell up to where you can’t even make a fist, not sure what is causing this and my dr. is baffled so far or he doesn’t want to make the effort of finding out. I drink alot of liquids at work, water, gatorade and other water beverages, I don’t pee much and sometimes it is really dark when I do go. But no matter how much I drink I just don’t pee, it seems odd to me. What can be wrong?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time September 13, 2009 at 3:29 pm
Any condition where you do not produce enough pee is potentially serious. It it possible that the treatment has affected your kidneys. I would suggest that you read the Waterfall Diet book (printed version, which is more for health than just for weight loss) to find out more about kidney health.
Comment from liz roberts
Time September 20, 2009 at 6:16 pm
my son has been ill for some weeks, very lathargic, no energy, and also now has fluid in his legs, ankles,stomach,testicals and penis, any ideas what this could be.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time September 20, 2009 at 7:29 pm
A medical diagnosis cannot be made without a proper physical examination by a doctor. This sounds like you should get your son to a doctor as soon as possible.
Comment from WILLIAM
Time September 25, 2009 at 4:44 am
Male, 81 yrs, normally 138 lbs, now 150lbs,thighs to toes swollen to twice normal girth, prescribed to double lasex intake and record weight daily.
Have emphysema and use supplementary oxygen up to 15hrs /day @ 3 l/m
and achieve% Sp O2 of low 90′s % while seated. What will Waterfall tell me to do?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time September 25, 2009 at 8:35 am
The Waterfall Diet book explains all the different causes of water retention and has questionnaires to help you identify your type so that you can apply the most helpful dietary measures. But you should only use it if your doctor has eliminated heart or kidney problems. In your case with a serious lung condition your heart is under a lot of stress. This is what is causing your water retention so in this case the doctor’s treatment is best.
Comment from tammala
Time October 14, 2009 at 2:28 pm
A couple of days ago I realize that my stomach started growing I am 48 I and I work out on a daily and the only thing I could come up with is water retention because I still get my period please tell me if I may be on the right track thanks.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time October 14, 2009 at 3:26 pm
Tammala, that’s not a lot of information to go on. It could be water retention or maybe bloating or even pregnancy. If you are fairly sure it’s water retention, you would find it useful to check out the information in my publications. I’ve also just brought out a new E-book called Linda’s Flat Stomach Secrets which includes a program to deal with both water retention and bloating at the same time.
Comment from Amanda
Time October 16, 2009 at 11:58 am
Good day, I have read all the comments etc. and would like to ask a question. If one tends to be “top heavy” puffy arms etc can that be water retention?? I don’t have a problem with my legs but this “top heavy ness” is bothering me. I am using eltroxin for the past 5 years, but it doesn’t seem to do any thing about my weight. I am trying to to weights for my arms for firmness, but I dont know. I have ordered your book in South Africa, and cannot wait for delivery. Can you comment? Kind regards Amanda
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time October 16, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Amanda, water retention can settle anywhere in the body, so it could account for puffy arms. A lot of people with thyroid problems have water retention. Breast tenderness is also usually a sign of water retention. Let me know if you would like me to write you a health program to help your thyroid.
Comment from Nora
Time October 16, 2009 at 6:37 pm
I have idiopathic oedema and take amilorid medication from 4 years every day.I started the waterfall diet 1 week ago.How, and when can I finished the tablets?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time October 16, 2009 at 6:39 pm
Nora, I would recommend that you come off the diuretic slowly, otherwise you may get rebound water retention. Diuretics make the body hold on to water to avoid becoming dehydrated. It gets into a habit of holding on to water and when you stop the diuretics this pattern continues so that you appear to have worse water retention, but in fact it is just a reaction to stopping the pills. I recommend cutting the dose in half every week. Wishing you well with the diet.
Comment from Audrey
Time November 8, 2009 at 10:07 am
I used to have yo-yo thyroid after birth of my kids. From hyper to hypo back to hyper etc. Now i am already off medication for my thyroid condition is suppressed. I have noticed bloatedness in my tummy especially after i drink water. I am very observant for i realised on days when my tummy is bloated, after water input, water output is little. By then, i’d have gained more than 1kg. Then after 1 or 2 weeks later, after my water input, my water output is doubled or even tripled? I usually drink 3 litres of water everyday. I want to get rid of this water retention which comes 2x a month. I have not lost kgs gained during for all 3 pregnancies! Help! Whats happening?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time November 9, 2009 at 3:41 pm
This does sound like water retention. Hormonal imbalances are sometimes implicated in water retention, but this is only one potential cause. It is best to get started straight away on the Waterfall Diet as it will help to rebalance your metabolism. If you get the paperback book version you will find some questionnaires to fill in which will help you understand your condition better.
Comment from fifi
Time November 10, 2009 at 5:15 am
i moved ayear ago to another state and im so under stress with my life i kept gaining weight although im not eating,so i went on a diet but i kept gaining weight all my clothes doesnt fit me now,my friend told me maybe because of stress i have water retention so do u thunk thats true because really i dont know whats happening
Comment from wallace
Time November 14, 2009 at 7:07 pm
how does sugar retain your water ??
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time November 18, 2009 at 6:04 pm
About one third of the population are sugar-sensitive. Sugar in large amounts creates hormonal imbalances which can lead to water retention. In large amounts it is also harmful to the kidneys.
Comment from Sarah
Time November 21, 2009 at 6:37 pm
Have had swollen lower legs for the past year suprisingly though my actual ankles are skinny, the swelling starts above the ankle bone, I am 5’6″ and now weigh about 9 stone 4lbs not overweight but my normal weight is about 8 stone 7lbs. I also have chubby toes and a pot belly. My doctor said it was pitting oedema and they did a scan on my liver and pelvis in case it was hormones but the results were all fine. Elevating my legs helps but as soon as i stand up the swelling comes back. I hate the appearance of my legs my stomach is huge and I dont know what to do as my doctor is reluctant to give me water tablets as they put too much strain on the kidneys. Would the diet be suitable for me I have had IBS for the past 5 years and do you think it would help.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time November 23, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Dear Sarah, your doctor is very wise not to prescribe diuretics. The Waterfall Diet was written for people just like you. I think you will find it very helpful. Let us know how you get on.
Comment from april queen
Time December 6, 2009 at 10:42 pm
I have just ordered your book from Borders. I am diabetic and on januvia and glipizide. I have fibromyalgia also. I am 38 and have a lot of water retention. I had endometrial ablation 6 years ago, but I used to gain 5-7 lbs. before my period. I just started seeing an endocrinologist and he is going to do an ultrasound on my thyroid because he said it was enlarged. I never had a weight problem until my first pregnancy and I had gestational diabetes. I also had it with my other two pregnancies and developed type 2 five years after my last child was born. I feel really swollen all of the time and am overweight although I don’t eat very much at all. My stomach is very big and I get asked when am I due a lot. I saw above that you can help with a diet for the thyroid. I am a single mom and am desperate to feel better. I have noticed that I am a lot more tired when I feel more swollen than usual. I would greatly appreciate any help you can give me. I am looking forward to reading your book.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time December 8, 2009 at 4:00 am
I’d be glad to work with you on your thyroid problem but the best way to approach this is for you to follow the advice in the book first as it will start to balance your metabolism and get you on the way to feeling better. Individual advice is much more costly, so I recommend that you work from the book first and then consult me later for the finer details.
Comment from Diyah
Time December 8, 2009 at 4:12 am
Hi… I’ve been having bloated tummy and swollen legs and sometimes
puffy fingers for the past 6mths.. I can feel the tense on my fingers n feet..
I put on 5kg in 4mths.. My meals diet have been the same, but it seem that
i put on more weigh.. is it really water retention..? And is the best thing
for me to do?? As in my daily meals..
Thank you..
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time December 8, 2009 at 5:43 pm
Puffy fingers and swollen legs usually do indicate water retention. If you click on the link to download the waterfall diet e-guide you can change your daily meals straight away and start helping your problem.
Comment from al
Time December 12, 2009 at 9:48 pm
i’m writing on behaft of my wife .3 months ago she was put in the hospital
with accute liver problems. she has developed an accute case of water retention in her abdomin,legs.feet and hips.she is also expercing multiple blisters on her feet and legs. what is happening?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time December 12, 2009 at 11:11 pm
Water retention caused by heart, liver or kidney problems must be medically treated. When the liver fails water retention occurs. If your wife drinks alcohol she must stop as this is life-threatening.
Comment from Dylan
Time December 21, 2009 at 2:19 pm
I am a 43 year old male. I am 6 ft tall and weigh 91 kilos. I walk and cycle regularly and have a healthy appetite. I would rate my body as slim/medium yet any weight gain goes to my stomach. Despite crunches and the regular exercise, my stomach seems to be getting bigger. I drink lots of water. I have been on anti-depressants long term (the current anti-depressant is supposed to have less side effects as it is newest on the market – so my doctor says). Is the anti-depressant causing my larger stomach? The rest of my body doesn’t seem to be gaining weight. I need help, please!
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time December 21, 2009 at 6:22 pm
I’ve just been researching and writing about this very topic – disproportionate growth of tummy compared with rest of body. I can’t say if the drugs are connected, but it is a common enough problem caused by several different hormonal factors, including stress. You will find a very full explanation and help in my latest book Linda’s Flat Stomach Secrets.
Comment from ANN-MARIE
Time January 6, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Hi Linda,
I am a 28 year old mother of one I used to be bulemic when I was between 16-18 years old I stopped making myself sick when I gained confidence in myself and started karate and toned up my body more recently 3 years ago I had my son and found it hard to shift the post pregnancy weight I fluctuate up to ten pounds difference from day to day and have found myself vomiting more and doing enemas to try and get a few pounds off as dieting and excercise just doesn’t touch me infact it makes me heavier I feel so tired and full up all the time I want to be back to my confident self, I have also recently been diagnosed as having an inflammed gall bladder, so I don’t know which route to take and find most diets too expensive to withstand – please help me I’m desparate!!
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time January 6, 2010 at 5:35 pm
The damage to your body from the bulimia, and the stresses of pregnancy have drained it. Your body has had to slow down its metabolism in order to conserve resources. 10 pounds fluctuation in weight from day to day indicates water retention. You really need to read my book to understand your body better. The waterfall diet asks you to use fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and beans, which are some of the cheapest foods you can buy. It is your body that is desperate and only you can help it recover. Let us know how you get on.
Comment from Teresa
Time February 5, 2010 at 4:47 pm
i am 45 and in menopause, i started retaining fluid in hands, face and inside my upper legs, doc said kidney and thyroid levels are fine, i drink alot of water but cant pee good what is going on, during the day the fluid goes down some what but if i drink something it will come back, i cant loose and gain 4 to 5 lbs in a days time, will this ever stop?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time February 7, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Teresa, that’s excellent news that your kidneys are fine. That means the diet has every chance of working for you.
Comment from mikhaella
Time February 16, 2010 at 11:21 pm
hi,im taking oral contraceptives which may be one cause of water retention and diuretics for my hypertension.i tried to stop diuretics when my bp was stabilized but had the diuretic rebound and bp shoot up.weight gain was not that considerable while i was not yet on diuretics and contraceptives.any safe way to get off diuretics?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time February 17, 2010 at 6:18 pm
You should not come off prescribed medication without your doctor’s permission, but you may well find that with the waterfall diet your blood pressure drops as you lose fluid. Water retention is often a major cause of high blood pressure. Try to get the new edition of the waterfall diet book (from Amazon UK). The earlier edition is ok if you can’t.
Comment from jo
Time February 18, 2010 at 1:05 am
I have just come back from a 2 day stay in hospital for adhesions in my intestines, where I was on a drip. 2 days into my time back home my legs are noticeably larger than before despite eating nothing for 2 days and eating only a little since I returned. Can I hope that within a few more days I will be back to normal or have I developed a new problem. I am sometimes bloated (especially stomach), but have always assumed this is because of a bowel disorder.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time February 18, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Give it a little time to settle down. Recovering from surgery leads to inactivity which can cause swollen legs. Try to exercise your legs gently if you can, or if not then keep wiggling your toes.
Comment from shirley
Time February 21, 2010 at 6:53 pm
I started taking a drug for incontinence, Toviaz, which worked right away, but now my breast nipples is very sensitive and doesn’t stay the same amount out form my breast. My gynecologist chicked my breast last week and is having me have an ultrasound for a cyst. He didn’t feel anything. Last month my mammogram was normal. I also changed my diet about 2 months ago to a healthy one instead of eating whatever I wanted. Do you have an idea what happened to my breast?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time February 22, 2010 at 5:36 pm
Always check drugs out on the internet to find out about possible side effects. It’s also worth learning some pelvic floor exercises which can help prevent incontinence.
Comment from lisa
Time February 23, 2010 at 10:03 am
for the past 4 months my legs, ankles, and calfs have started to swell and i have gained over 25 pounds and have not been eating that much…i do drink alot of diet pepsi could this be causing the swelling and weight gain?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time February 25, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Lisa, it certainly sounds like water retention. If you think diet pepsi might be causing it, why not stop drinking it for a while? If that doesn’t help, try to get the waterfall diet book as you might need more than just a simple solution.
Comment from Pamela
Time March 2, 2010 at 9:00 am
Something I did not think of but is possible obstructive force in my lymph edema. I noticed that I actual started to harden now. I bought sun pentown messager and found recently my back suddenly is active with the hormonal sweats for my age.
Comment from maria
Time March 3, 2010 at 12:31 am
hi im swollen loaded in my leggs stomach hands my rings r tight and my socks leave marks they never did before im on meds for my back i get nerve blocks 3x a month im on aspirin 81mg calciummegvitd evening primrose oil progesterone im 47 im prememupausal amitriptlene lyrica pariet backlophen for muscle spasms when needed i ve gained weight not a very happy camper i want to be sexy and smaller like i was 3yrs ago help pls thanks
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time March 4, 2010 at 8:50 am
Hi everyone, it’s lovely to read all your comments, but I really can’t answer appeals for help except to say that the help is already in my books the Waterfall Diet and Linda’s Flat Stomach Secrets. Everywhere else on the internet you will find little snippets like ‘eat less salt’ or ‘drink more water’. But water retention is a complex condition and snippets like that are pointless. If you really want to help your condition you’ve got to do a bit of work to shape up your metabolism. For that you need information. More than just a sentence or two! Read the book and follow the diet. What you will get in it is all the benefit of my knowledge and experience without having to pay me $100 for a private consultation! Love you all – let me know how you get on. Linda xx
Comment from Kerri
Time May 9, 2010 at 9:25 am
I am 35 years old and have recently come off gabapentin for nerve pain. Since I have reduced the medication I have suffered fluid rention and up to 7kgs fluctuation in weight a week, fluid is all over but worst around the stomach which causes me loss of breath. I have been on diuretics for six months but still hardly going to the toilet and I drink alot! I have recently had blood tests for liver and kidney but everything has come back fine. I have IBS and I am gluten intollerant so have elliminated gluten and dairy products in my diet. Because of my restricted diet and IBS would the waterfall diet still be recommended?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time May 9, 2010 at 11:28 am
Kerri, there is no problem with the diet for people on a gluten- and dairy-free regime. NB People with complex health conditions are recommended to get the more informative 2010 paperback edition of the book. Ask the bookstore for ISBN 0749942533.
Comment from jean
Time June 20, 2010 at 1:13 pm
Hi Linda can you help
I get swollen legs feet and anckes when I go abroad I drink lols of water about a letre aday I can put on excess whight of 7 to 10 pound in a week when am on holiday my gp is reluctant to give me any meds for the water retention as it mostly happens when I go abroad.and no matter how much water i drink ionly pass very little water and i am also wondering if ice cream can coase you to have water retention as this is the only time i eat ice cream many thanks
Comment from helanna
Time August 8, 2010 at 7:36 pm
hi i have done the waterfall diet and lost 3 stone last year weight has come back on. And i’m now fluctating 8 pounds a day. Feel massive the only problem i found with the diet was i was hungry so hard to stay on it long time. I’ve had a baby and cant get rid off the excess weight what shall i do?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 14, 2010 at 10:49 am
The Waterfall Diet should not leave you feeling hungry as it is not a calorie-controlled diet. It is only designed for releasing water retention and keeping it permanently off by helping you identify any foods that may be aggravating it.
Comment from hayley
Time August 24, 2010 at 7:13 pm
A year ago my 16 year old daughter was diagnosed with an over active thyroid and as a result has gained over 2 stone. Everyone said she would lose weight but can gain 5 pound in a week so I know it is water retention. She drinks over 2 litres a day and eats a very balance healthy diet of only fruit vegetables and lean chicken,salmon and shell fish. She is currently not treated although it is likely she will lstart on carbimaxizole which is likely to increase weight gain further. We are desperate for a solution.
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time August 24, 2010 at 7:30 pm
In addition to the right nutrition, therapies like acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine or even anthroposophical medicine can be very helpful for an overactive thyroid. Try googling for practitioners in your area.
Comment from Ella
Time September 11, 2010 at 3:57 pm
Dear Linda. I am 38 years old, I have been living in Middle East for the last 5 years and after I had my second son here 4.5 years ago I noticed that my body cant go back to my normal weight of 60kg. I cant loose 5-6kg despite exercising, mainly yoga and sensible diet, my shoe size went up by 2 numbers since I moved here. I eat balance diet and drink lots of water and fresh juices. I have healthy heart, kidneys, liver and have no history of thyroid. Do you think the problem is due to water retention?
Comment from Linda Lazarides
Time September 13, 2010 at 10:14 am
The best way to find out whether it is due to water retention is to follow the Waterfall Diet for two weeks. If the weight goes quickly then it was water retention.
Comment from missjoyce
Time October 4, 2010 at 11:12 pm
I am 47 years old and for the last 20 years my weight has been around 150-155 and now its at 170. I am not eating anymore than usual, but I notice the weight keeps going up. I went from a size 10 to a 12-14. I have hot flashes every now and then, but one thing I notice is a dull pain in my chest and sometimes my breathing seems off. I notice a lot of extra lbs in my stomach area also. Could I be retaining fluid or could something be going on with my heart? I also experience a lot of acid reflux. I am concerned about whats going on with my body and not knowing what is happening!
Comment from Mack Oyok
Time November 15, 2010 at 11:41 am
it is essential to find out more about your condition, so yes, do try to read the book and then you can decide if you want to do the diet.
Comment from Patricia
Time November 17, 2010 at 1:58 am
I have hypothyroid and have been on meds for years. I feel my body is retaining too much fluid, breasts are swollen, stomach and legs. I take synthroid, fluid pill(prescription) and cannot lose weight. I go to gym, treadmill 4 days week and drink water, I cannot lose any weight. I am 5’5″ and weigh 165.
Comment from Ilka
Time December 4, 2010 at 10:37 am
Hi, I have a friend who has your “Linda’s Flat Stomach Secrets” and I was thinking of getting it myself. I have very thin legs, small backside and skinny back, yet since I can remember I’ve always had a really big stomach – I mean so big all the time, for years, (with and without period) that people, including my own mother, have asked me if I’m pregnant. I’ve also got very fat upper arms for the rest of my body. The skinny parts are remaining skinny and the bigger parts are just getting bigger, although I’m only 25, I eat healthily and do Pilates.
Comment from Symptoms Adrenal Fatigue
Time December 14, 2010 at 11:56 pm
That makes so much sense that hormones play a part in water retentions, especially cortisol which is produced from the adrenal glands.
Comment from randall
Time December 30, 2010 at 9:25 pm
I exercise daily doing alot of cardio. I sweat alot during my workout and sometimes at night when sleeping. I have worked out on tread mill and eliptical with a starting weight of 178 and when finished wieghed 172. I have been told it is water weight. The next day I weighed 178 this happens often.
Comment from nana
Time January 10, 2011 at 6:56 pm
Hi I have a 16 year old daughter who could not seem to slim down and complains about her belly feels bloated. She is not over weight and can’t understand why she can’t seem to slim down. She has been eating sandwiches and hot cheetos at school daily for lunch and we try to eat heathy at home like no soda and very little sweets but we do eat foods with lots of cheese. I do wonder if she is eating to much foods with sodium. I don’t think she is over weight but does look more like water gain since she complains about her blowing stomach. We have ask her doctor about her weight but the doctor told her, that her weight was fine and it might be her hormones changing.
Comment from Pete
Time January 14, 2011 at 2:45 am
I have serious water retention that has not been resolved it,s been 4 months.Ihave gained has much as 30 pds to the point were i can,t put any thing on .I was in the hosp. for 2 weeks and was sent home with no explanation.iwas given water pills and asked if i was diebetic or had a heart condition to wich i did have a heart attack 2 years ago but the test at the hosp. gave an a ok.This is reacurring often and still no reason why.
Comment from Megan
Time January 24, 2011 at 8:52 am
I am 31 years of age and weigh 63kg’s. I have changed employment were from standing alot to now sitting alot. Now have swollen legs and feet. I drink lots of water and exercise at least twice a week.
Comment from jess
Time January 30, 2011 at 7:46 am
I have a 4 year old son. That we have noticed retains fluid on his feet. And complains at time that thay hurt. He does not eat much salt. And does not get much sugar. He eats a lot of fruits and veggies. Not much meat. His pediatrician has never see it do it. We have gotten him a new pediatrician just waiting to get to see him
Comment from Marthie
Time February 16, 2011 at 1:14 pm
I am a woman of 53yrs. For the last 1yr I have swollen feet and ankles, not all the time. I did had a hysterectomy,ovaries were not removed. Is in menopause.Do drink hormone tablets for the last 5yrs. Were 8yrs ago 104kg lost 34kg, is still 70kg after 8yrs. Went to the Doctor,tested hart,kidneys,liver and thyroid,all is ok. He gave me some water tablets, it helps, but soon as I stop, swelling comes back. Also in the morning is the swelling better. Drink a lot of water. Sit long periods in front of computer.
Comment from Louis
Time March 17, 2011 at 11:06 pm
I am a 40 yr old male. I have recently changed my lifestyle for quite a healthy one and have been losing about 1kg per week for the last 10 weeks. I normally weigh myself once a week and was stunned to find that i actually weigh 1kg more than a week ago just after getting back from a 2 day bussiness trip. I have not over indulge and even went for a run while away. Can it be posssible that i retained water from the 6 hours drive there and back and from sitting in a meeting for 2 straight days?
Comment from rosamund baird
Time March 25, 2011 at 8:19 pm
Dear Linda,
I thought I would Write to you,because I appear to have a form of fluid retention.I do not have swollen ankles,but I do have what has seemed to be,fluid on the bust stomach thighs calfs even if they look firm,I have this fluid coating on my behind and hips,I must say even when this problem developed 18 years ago ,my behind still looked firm,but it is not the same as it had been before,I had developed this strange feeling which does make me feel rather bloated,before you ask I have not been on the contraceptive pill.
Comment from Lion
Time April 7, 2011 at 1:41 am
I am 55, female, eating fruit, leafy green veg, chicken, fish. Drink water prescribed 60mg/day corticosteroids for 6 months. Now have significant constant water retention which is increasing. Exercise at gym 3 times/week. Fat reducing, muscle increasing, but increasing water retention means no weight loss.
Comment from Elmer M.
Time April 10, 2011 at 11:44 am
I used to love salty food. (I still do, but I do it moderately now.) Way back then when I was still eating salty food, I noticed that I was frequently thirsty, but I never thought salt was one of the causes. I still drink lots of water, since I need it when I’m exercising.
Comment from tracy
Time April 13, 2011 at 11:39 am
ive been bullimic for 20 yrs,so my weight has been up and down, as is my electrolites eg,potassium has been at 1.6, ive had loss of menses although there back again stopping and starting. my problem now,however is yhe massive swings in water that i cnt function as i feel so bloated. im still vomiting on a regular basis.
Comment from Maggie
Time April 21, 2011 at 5:33 am
I am 68 yrs. old. Last Sept. 10. I went on vacation for a week. I didn’t junk food at night, etc. which I am famous for doing. I was too busy to junk during the day also. ANYHOW when I got home – I had lost a solid 8 lbs. BUT here’s the madness to my happiness over the weight loss. By the end of Oct . 2010. I started to swell – my stomach – my ankles. Within 4 mos. I gained 12 lbs. and not stopping for some reason. Never had water retention in my life. It’s like the scales keep going up.
Comment from Kate
Time May 9, 2011 at 1:57 pm
I am 30 years old, a month ago i had very low potassium and had to go in hospital and was put on an iv potassium drip. Since then, i have gone up 4 dress sizes, my doctors dont know why or what to do, i am very depressed and cant cope with how my body has ballooned, ive just ordered your book and cant wait for it to arrive. I have tried different water tablets even furosemide and nothing works, I am at my wits ends and hope your book can help me.
Comment from ginger
Time May 15, 2011 at 4:51 am
hi my name is ginger and my feet are red and swollen i have been told that i have edema and i have no clue what symptoms i have. i have took water pills for awhile now.i dont know if i should go to the hospital or not,should i stay elivated or stop eating salt like the articles above say.i have read other articles on edema and none of them were all that helpful.This article was very helpful.
Comment from Linda
Time May 19, 2011 at 12:42 am
I have a ridiculous amount of water weight at times 8-10lbs. I am on lasix 160mgs a day. I started out on 10mg many years ago. recently it seems at times the pills arent even working and for the past four days i am still swollen in the feet, ankles, hands and face. I look like i have put on weight but my weight is still down. I have had lots of blood work to check kidney function, protein, potassium, cbc everything has come back normal but my problem is getting worse. I need a solution, my doctor wants to take me off the lasix, the dosage is too high and on days when i dont take it suddenly even drinking a lot of fluids doesnt make me go normally. it seems now i am having trouble if i dont have the lasix.
Comment from Connie
Time May 26, 2011 at 3:12 am
Been taking a Tramadol for pain and now my legs and ankles are swollen. Could it be from the medication?
Comment from Cori
Time June 7, 2011 at 9:03 am
I am a type 1 diabetic, I occasionally retain some water, however the last couple of weeks , not only can i not see my ankles, i can’t make a fist or hold anything with 1 hand. My knees and elbows are also swollen.
Comment from Maggie
Time June 14, 2011 at 9:57 am
I am 65 and have been a Weight Watcher for about 9 years. I still attend monthly meetings. Lost 17 pounds fairly easily and kept it off for about three years. But have noticed in the last two years I have gained here and there and NOW I am three pounds heavier than I have EVER been with my legs and tummy showing it the most. Am now wondering if it could be water weight. Went from a size 6, to an 8, to a 10 in two years!! Never add salt to my food. Eat a lot of produce daily and exercise 3 to 4 hours a week. About 80% of the time I eat low cal meals.
Comment from pam
Time July 6, 2011 at 11:24 am
Hi, I’m 59, female. I gave up working a quite active job about 6 months ago and also gave up smoking, which meant that my metabolism totally changed. But not only did I put weight on as a result, I began retaining fluid.
Comment from v.angelin
Time July 28, 2011 at 10:25 am
I am 40yrs old.my height is 148cms,wt 69kg.having hypothyroidism.on thyroxin 75mcg od.i am having fluind retension & past 4yrs i am gaining weight.i am non veg,but i will not take anything except chicken & fish.
Comment from Kurt
Time August 22, 2011 at 5:11 am
I had a renal nephrectomy in 2006. Also, I’ve been taking tenormin for over 20 years. I believe the swelling in my right leg (ankles) is caused by these two things, along with the varicose veins I have in that leg. (I also know I need to cut down on salt and sugar – but I do exercise and workout quite regularly.)
Comment from jackie
Time February 5, 2012 at 10:38 am
ive just came across this when i googled as im a little concerned.For years now,when i have a night out and drink alcohol i fill with water,hardly go to the loo and dont even feel like going.My ancles,fingers,legs,stomach,everywhere.Gradually over the last yr or two ive been going to the toilet a lot,during the night was the worst but lately even during the day its constant,its getting embaressing.unless ofcourse i have alcohol(very rarely).My lower back hurts but more so when i need a wee.Im having a pelvic xray next week as when the bottom of my stomach is pressed its tender…i have over the last few yr developed terrible like celulite which sometimes hurts.i feel overwhelmed with tiredness sometimes and could just cry as im only 40 but can feel 70.
Comment from jessica
Time October 30, 2011 at 8:45 am
I have had weight problems since going on the pill when i was 22 yrs old. although i was only on it for 6 months , when i came off it i gained a stone in a week. It took years to get back down to my original weight. Later on in my thirties i gained weight after giving birth to my first two children and went from size 10 to size 14. however things really ballooned after my third child was born. I have now been trying yo lose weight for 18yrs and have had various health problems throughout that time span.e. pulmonary oedema, hypo thyroid and high blood pressure. I look pregnant and have now doubled my original weight as i now weigh 16stone. Despite healthily eating and dog walking i have put on 10lbs in the past 2 weeks.
Comment from heidi
Time July 17, 2009 at 5:34 pm
i am not a heavy person but have heavy and sometimes puffy legs and cellulite that is sometimes painful to touch. i do excercise, if i do the waterfall diet should my cellulite (which i can’t stand) go away?