When you know you have not cheated on your diet or missed exercising your body, but still the weighing scale shocks you by showing weight gain, you should probably not fret, because it is most probably due to “water retention.” This problem is a common PMS (premenstrual) symptom, but there are other reasons why your body retains water.

What is Water Retention"

Water retention is accumulation of additional fluid in the circulatory system or within the body tissues. This fluid buildup can make you feel bloated and swelled up, both in feel and appearance. Water retention can prevent you from fitting into your favorite pair of jeans. Water retention most commonly shows up on the feet and legs, but it can occur in the hands, arms, abdominal cavity and around the lungs. Water retention usually clears up on its own within a few days. However, if the condition persists for more than a week then, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Types of water retention:
? Generalized edema: It refers to the swelling that occurs all over the body

? Localized edema: It refers to the swelling in specific parts of the body.
Causes of water retention:
1. Too much salt/sodium – Salt is the most usual culprit that helps body retain excess fluid. Reduce sodium intake to get rid of water retention.
2. When you haven’t consumed enough water, the next time that you drink water, your body will store that up. To prevent such a situation, drink at least 8 glasses of water eac...