Tired of heavy legs? Alcohol, processed meats, white flour, salt, ready meals and white sugar: here are 6 foods often limited as part of a balanced diet, along with simple ideas for replacing them day to day.
How do I know if I have water retention?
Water retention is generally described as swollen, uncomfortable legs, often towards the end of the day, a temporary feeling of heaviness and, sometimes, the appearance of aqueous cellulite.
This term is often used to describe a build-up of fluid in the tissues. Several factors are often mentioned: standing or sitting for too long, heat, hormonal fluctuations (periods, pregnancy…), certain medications… as well as your lifestyle in general, including your diet.
Some foods, particularly those high in salt, sugar or calories, are worth limiting as part of a balanced diet. Find out which ones below!
6 foods to limit as part of a balanced diet
Alcohol
Rich in sugar and calories, alcohol is best enjoyed in moderation. It is therefore sensible to limit how often you drink it and choose water or alcohol-free drinks as often as possible.
Processed meats
Often high in fat and salt, processed meats are best kept as an occasional treat. It is best to leave them aside and, when cravings strike, choose the least salty options, such as potted meat, cooked ham or cooked sausage.
Refined flour provides little fibre and is found in many processed products. Ideally, choose wholegrain flour, which provides more fibre, and limit processed foods made with white flour.
Salt
Table salt contains sodium, an ingredient best kept to a minimum as part of a balanced diet. It is best to reduce the amount you use and flavour your meals with spices, herbs or lemon juice instead. Bear in mind that sea salt also contains sodium chloride, so it should be used in moderation too.
Ready meals
Most ready meals are high in salt, so they are best limited as part of a balanced diet. Remember to check the nutritional information before buying a product at the supermarket. You may be surprised to see how many processed foods contain salt, including soups, bread, salads and sauces.
White sugar
Refined sugar is one of the ingredients that people are generally advised to limit. As with flour, you can choose unrefined sugar or honey instead, in moderation, and limit processed foods that contain refined sugar. Also watch out for sugary drinks, which can contain large amounts of sugar.
By limiting these 6 products in your diet, you are choosing more balanced habits, which can be a positive step for your day-to-day wellbeing. To find out more about aqueous cellulite, explore our advice.
To look after yourself day to day, focus on three key habits: a balanced diet, physical activity and cupping massages with your CelluBlue Cups. To complement this routine, you can also discover the anti-cellulite programme, which combines capsules and a food supplement.
