Water or fluid retention, known by the technical name of edema, occurs in our bodies when there are extra fluids that have built up. It causes our body to swell, which is often seen in the face, hands, ankles and legs.
What causes puffiness and water retention?
It includes a variety of factors ranging from changes in blood pressure and congestion in the lymphatic system, to pregnancy and lack of physical activity (think: sedentary desk-bound jobs and long-haul flights).
Water retention can also be brought on by a high intake of sodium, which causes the water to draw towards the extra salt in your body. So if you have recently pigged out on a big serving of wedges and sweet chilli sauce (we’ve been there), you might be holding onto some extra liquid; causing a “puffy” appearance.
Luckily, there’s a few foods which can help with preventing water retention, and reducing the impact if it strikes: