How to Reduce Water Retention in the Abdomen

Water retention is a common nuisance that often occurs in the abdomen. As a result, your clothes may fit snugly and you may notice extra pounds on the scale. However, water is easier to lose than fat---in most cases, you can shed pounds of water weight in days.

Things You'll Need

• Water pills
• Calcium supplements

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Take an over-the-counter diuretic---commonly called a "water pill"---as directed on the package to stimulate the release of extra fluids from your body.

• 2

  Take calcium supplements a few days before your menstrual cycle begins.

• 3

  Increase your potassium intake by eating bananas and other potassium-rich foods such as apricots, cantaloupe, lima beans and Brussels sprouts.

• 4

  Drink caffeine---a natural diuretic---in moderation and consume eight glasses of water a day.

• 5

  Eat low-sodium foods, as salt contributes to fluid retention.

• 6

  Exercise for 30 minutes a day.