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summer water weight gain
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At the beginning of every summer, when the temperatures suddenly spike along with the humidity, I suddenly (as in, overnight), gain as much as 5 pounds of water weight. A nutritionist told me that it's a natural phenomenon as my body tries to hold on to every molecule of water to prevent dehydration. Since I'm pretty small (5'1", normally around 97 pounds), a 5 pound weight gain is very uncomfortable. Drinking lots of water doesn't seem to help. My body just wants to hold on to the extra water. Any suggestions on how to shed the water weight naturally and safely?
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Re: summer water weight gain [Thumper] [ In reply to ]
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I'm usually smaller (but currently post-baby) at 5'4" and 115. As a dietitian, who happens to retain water all the time, I typically watch my sodium intake closely. Unless I'm going out the door for a long run/ride in the heat, I limit salt. On the opposite side, limiting potassium can cause water retention (so eat some bananas!). Also, diets higher in carbs/higher glycogen stores lead to increased water retention vs. diets higher in protein.

Muscles also tend to hold water after hard, demanding workouts. I always throw on a pair of compression sleeves/socks so the water doesn't get too comfortable in my legs. After long races, I put on compression tights.

You may want to experiment and try something one at a time to see if you are sensitive to any of the above factors.
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