The saying goes that because we’re made up of about 60% water, we’re really just cucumbers with anxiety. True? Perhaps. However, what is definitely fact is that few, if any of us pursuing our best bodies, are happy with the soft and chubby appearance that water retention gives us. It’s time we put an end to any water-induced anxiety and learn about an important measure we can take to reduce water retention. Read on to discover what water retention is and how diuretics can help you on your road to getting shredded.
What is water retention?
The term water retention refers to the accumulation of excess fluids in the body. It has the effect of blurring the hard-earned definition you spent sweating for as you completed countless reps in the gym. For those competing in bodybuilding competitions, it could very well be the difference in improving the overall package you bring to the stage.
Causes of water retention
What you put in your body has a profound effect on not only how your body functions but its appearance too – this also applies to water retention. Excess sodium has the effect of making your body draw in more water, effectively masking your vascularity and definition. Another critical part of your diet is the amount of potassium you consume. This is because potassium helps regulate the levels of sodium in our cells (Gallen et al, 1998), and therefore helps control the amount of water we retain.
This is a bit of a no brainer but failing to get enough exercise hinders the vital processes for maintaining the right balance of water in your body. Exercise helps to stimulate your lymphatic system, which will regulate the balance of fluids in your body.
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Not drinking enough water
This might seem counterintuitive but the bloating and water retention that you may experience from time to time may simply be your body communicating that it is not getting the adequate amount of water. Instead of ridding your body of water and waste products, your body will retain water.
Where diuretics come in
Commonly known as water pills,
diuretics are a type of drug or supplement that helps the body reduce water retention and sodium levels, thereby helping you conquer the challenge of muscle-concealing water retention. Clinically speaking, diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure (Musini et al, 2014) and edema (a build-up of excess fluid in the body).
How they work
Diuretics encourage the passing of more urine than is the norm. They assist our kidneys by increasing the level of sodium and water being expelled from our bodies, thus reducing any fluid build-up and helping you reveal greater detail in your muscle definition and conditioning.
Where can get yours
Diuretics have been known to cause a series of side effects which is why they should be used responsibly and after having sought professional advice. Our team of staff have an in-depth knowledge of our product range and are more than happy to assist you with advice and information regarding their use. They will also walk you through our extensive range of quality diuretics available instore or online.
References:
Gallen, IW et al. (1998) On the mechanism of the effects of potassium restriction on blood pressure and renal sodium retention,
American Journal of Kidney Diseases, Volume 31, Issue 1, 19 - 27 Musini VM, Nazer M, Bassett K, Wright JM. Blood pressure‐lowering efficacy of monotherapy with thiazide diuretics for primary hypertension.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2014, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD003824. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003824.pub2 Powerhouse is your dedicated partner in reaching your fitness goals. We have stock a quality product range of the world’s leading brands for
supplementation, including diuretics. For professional advice, quality equipment and first-rate supplements,
get in touch today and reach your goals.
