Leg swelling during the period of pregnancy is caused by changes in hormone levels, body posture and dietary habits. Using barley water is a healthy beverage that provides mild diuretic properties which increases the rate of urination that leads to loss of excess fluid. Remember that diuretics can help in reducing swelling in the legs.
Edema is the retention of water in the tissues and due to gravity; the water will accumulate in the legs and can be seen in the feet and around the ankles. Edema is common during pregnancy and among the elderly, but it can also be experienced at any age. Edema is not an inflammation and usually does not cause pain, but it can be caused by an imbalance in the hormones, consuming high levels of salt and insufficient proteins in the diet. Oftentimes, swelling of the legs can also be caused by some conditions such as lymph or blood vessel problems, kidney disease and heart diseases.
During pregnancy, changes in hormones and blood chemistry can result to temporary shifting of fluid from lymph and blood vessels into the tissue caused by osmosis. The strain of the developing uterus will slow down the flow of blood from the legs which causes pooling. Edema and swelling of the legs can happen in any stage of the pregnancy, but it is usually common after the fourth month. Factors that can worsen the swelling include a high-salt diet, standing or sitting for long periods of time and insufficient intake of water.
Barley water is a beverage produced by the distillation of barley and mixing it with some citrus fruits and sweeteners. Washed pearl barley is boiled in water and strained out from the boiling water. Pour hot water over the pulp or rind or citrus fruits such as lemon or oranges. Fruit juices and sugar is then added according to taste. Barley water is a good source of fiber, magnesium and lignans. In addition, it also helps in diluting excess salt in the bloodstream and minimizes edema.
Other remedies for reducing water retention in the body
- Consume fruits and vegetables that are high in water content which will increase urination more frequently such as watermelon and cucumber.
- Drink 8 glasses of water per day and avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks since they can cause dehydration.
- If the legs and feet are swelling, take a walk or perform some exercises. Remember that the movement can help eliminate the excess water.
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Foods that can lead to water retention and must be avoided include the following:
- Avoid consuming salt seasoning instead season foods with a squeeze of lemon, red pepper flakes and salt substitute.
- Saturated fats increases water retention, thus it is vital to minimize eating organ meats, veal, dark meat poultry, whole milk products, pork and beef. It is best to stick with skim milk and cold-water fish in order to avoid water retention.
- Avoid eating fried foods such as battered fried meats, French fries and battered fried vegetables.
- Avoid eating canned vegetables because they are high in sodium content.