Swollen legs and ankles, tingling and uncomfortable sensations… water retention is a very common phenomenon among women. But did you know it can be linked to the appearance of aqueous cellulite? To tackle it, incorporating detox and draining foods into your diet can make a real difference. Discover them in this article!
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Water retention and cellulite
Water retention is linked to a problem in the elimination of fluids by our body. Water and toxins tend to stagnate in the tissues instead of being eliminated through blood and lymphatic circulation. This excessive fluid build-up causes swelling, the typical symptom of water retention, as well as the appearance of a soft, painless type of cellulite: aqueous cellulite. It is found mainly on the legs, from the ankles to the thighs.
While the causes of water retention are many — from hormonal fluctuations to dehydration, heat or a diet too high in salt — it is possible to reduce it, particularly by incorporating draining foods into your meals.
The 10 best foods against water retention
1. Pineapple
The high fibre content of pineapple makes it an effective diuretic food.
2. Asparagus
Asparagus is an extremely diuretic vegetable, rich in fibre. It’s ideal for eliminating water retention and supporting good digestion.
3. Watermelon
Light and refreshing, watermelon should be your go-to summer food! Thanks to its high potassium content and very high water content, watermelon is one of the best anti-retention foods around.
4. Cherries
Cherries, and even cherry stems, are well known for their detox and draining properties.
5. Grapes
This fruit, very rich in water, has interesting detox properties.
6. Cucumber
The cucumber is made up almost entirely of water, making it a great addition to your diet!
7. Melon
This low-calorie summer fruit will help your body eliminate excess toxins and stored fluids.
8. White meats
Proteins, found in abundance in white meats, are known for their diuretic benefits.
9. Artichoke
Artichoke is a recommended ingredient for combating water retention, thanks to the inulin it contains. A must-have food!
10. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in vitamins and supports the immune system. It also offers other benefits, including antioxidant properties.
How to eat it: steam and dress with a vinaigrette.
Which foods should you avoid to reduce water retention?
Just as there are foods to favour to help your body eliminate excess stored fluids, there are also foods to avoid or, at the very least, limit.
The first of these is salt: high in sodium, table salt encourages our body to retain water in the tissues — the exact opposite of what we want when trying to reduce water retention and aqueous cellulite! Get into the habit of replacing salt with spices, and wage war on the “hidden” salt found in ready meals, deli meats, aperitif biscuits and, more broadly, all processed foods.
As well as cutting back on salt, it’s also worth keeping an eye on refined sugars, which also contribute to water retention. The most effective way to do this is to read nutritional labels carefully when you shop!
The last food to avoid in our fight against water retention: alcohol. Consumed in excess, alcohol leads to dehydration, which in turn worsens fluid retention. So keep consumption to the occasional glass.
To reduce cellulite and ease water retention, there is one winning trio you can’t do without: a healthy diet, physical activity and pinch-and-roll massages with your Cellublue Cupping Massager.
You’ll also find it in the Anti-Cellulite Method Pack for a powerful anti-cellulite routine!
