Fluid Retention for long periods of time

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I have been a consistent exerciser for years. I typically do 2-3 bootcamp sessions per week along with NWLRFW (I just finished Stage 3 - Workout B). For the past 2-3 weeks I have felt extremely swollen and bloated all over. At first I thought that perhaps I was retaining fluid due to vacation, increasing weights/changing routine, TOM, etc. but now that I am back to my regular eating habits and routine, I am not seeing a difference. I've been trying to drink even more water than usual, watch my salt, etc. but nothing is working. To boot, the scale says I am up 2 lbs (I know that shouldn't be a huge factor, but it is).

I am frustrated with the way I feel and the fact that I feel like any muscle definition I was seeing is no longer visible to me. I was just wondering, has anyone experienced extended water retention? How long did it last? Any tips for relieving it?

Replies

  • MsTanya77
    MsTanya77 Posts: 357 Member
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    I have experienced water retention in weight training. How often are you weight training? Are you doing it day after day? Because of water retention that happens as a normal healing process in muscles, weight train every two days and do low-intense cardio in between. Increase your water intake and try an OTC diuretic. My best friend retains like that from time to time and a water pill once a month or so usually helps her tremendously.
  • MissyMissy18
    MissyMissy18 Posts: 315 Member
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    YES. especially when things in my routine change (diet or exercise). For me, fluid retention can last up to 3 or 4 weeks, and then all of the sudden *WHOOSH*... and it's gone.

    Then of course it usually comes back in a few weeks for one reason or other ... but such is the curse of being a woman :mad:

    Keep doing what you're doing... it's a frustrating feeling, but it will pass. I think you'll be just fine!
  • AmoreCouture
    AmoreCouture Posts: 255 Member
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    It still could be from those things, however, have you had your thyroid checked? Swelling pretty much comes with it. Try drinking some coffee in the morning. It's a diuretic, so it may help.
  • pennstatealum2000
    pennstatealum2000 Posts: 12 Member
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    Well, it's good to know that I am not alone, but man is it frustrating!