Have you ever had the feeling that you’re putting on weight very quickly?
Well, I have good news for you because the truth may actually be that you’re experiencing a temporary swelling of your feet, belly, ankles and hands.
Sometimes, what people think is belly fat may simply be swelling caused by fluid retention.
We find this recurs more often in women, especially during days before menstruation, when the hormonal system is most affected. This is also the most difficult period to maintain or lose weight.
This type of swelling can increase your weight by up to 5 pounds – but it’s temporary.
Foods rich in sodium, salt and sugar are the main causes for swelling, which makes it harder for the body to eliminate toxins.
Gluten, which is present in cakes and breads can also contribute to bloating, but only if consumed in excess. You don’t actually have to remove it entirely from your menu unless you suffer from celiac disease.
It’s important to know how to tell the difference between localized fat and swelling, so that you can determine your best next move.
Doing that is simple:
Pinch a part of your belly or thighs carefully – if the skin turns red around your fingers and white where you pinched, then you should take some measures to reduce swelling.
Reducing the effects of swelling and bloating are easier than weight loss.
A good measure anyone can apply is simply to drink lots of water, as it will help with the production of urine. If you want to take things one step further, you can consume green, black or hibiscus teas which act as an even more powerful diuretic.
If your ankles and feet suffer from swelling, try to move them more during the day. Whenever you have the opportunity to walk, take advantage of it.
Aside from movement and liquids, eating slowly is also a good way to reduce swelling. By eating fast, we let in more air than necessary through our mouths, which can cause gas, as well as swelling.
There’s only a handful of tips you need to follow and they’re all very easy to apply. You should be able to start seeing the results in as little as 2-3 days without much effort.
