Question : I'M going through menopause now and my body weight has increased due to fluid retention. What can I do to reduce fluid retention?

Answer : FLUID retention or edema is a symptom of a disease and not a disease by itself, so specific treatment will depend on the underlying cause. One of the commonly encountered forms of edema is that related to the menstrual cycle. Other common causes of edema include allergies, excessive salt in food, vitamin B deficiency, constipation, kidney disease and heart failure.

The hormone fluctuation and persistent low levels of hormones may be responsible for the fluid retention. Thus, supplementing your diet with evening primrose oil may help to regulate the sensitivity of target organs to hormonal changes. Studies have shown that regular intake of evening primrose oil can help ease problems relating to women's menstrual cycle.
Increasing your vitamins B, especially vitamin B6 intake, may help to reduce fluid retention too. Vitamin B6 is a natural diuretic and vitamin B6 deficiency may cause edema. It is recommended for treating edema related to the menstrual cycle.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids are also essential for adrenal function and production of adrenal hormones, which are vital for proper fluid balance and control of edema. Incorporating herbs like dandelion in your diet may help to reduce fluid retention in your body. Dandelion is a natural diuretic that helps to get rid of accumulated fluids.

Diet may also play an important role in fluid retention. High consumption of salt-containing foods such as dried meats, pickles and canned food can upset the body's fluid equilibrium, thus causing the fluid retention. Eat foods that are rich in potassium such as banana. Increase raw vegetables intake may be beneficial. You may want to avoid dairy products.

You may also consider going to a sauna to increase perspiration if it is not contraindicated for the specific underlying cause. You should slowly increase your physical activities too.