5 things that can make you gain water weight

Getting rid of water weight is not an easy thing. To see your weight fluctuation every morning, when you step up on the weighing scale can be quite disheartening. The swollen fingers, the stiff joints, the bloated stomach does not only make a person feel uncomfortable but it is also quite frustrating, especially when you are watching your weight.
But that pesky extra weight of your body is because of some valid reasons and by making a few lifestyle changes you can get rid of it easily.
What is water weight?
Up to 60 per cent of a human body is made up of water, most of which is retained in the cells. A person gains water weight when the fluid is collected in the tissues, which leads to swelling of the body. The body stores the extra fluid between the organs and skin, instead of removing it out by urination. But water weight gain is temporary and it doesn’t mean you’ve gained actual weight.

Here are 5 things that make you gain water weight:

Too much salt or carb consumption
One of the most common causes of water retention is excessive salt consumption. Sodium binds with water and holds it in the body. Higher the sodium intake, greater the risk of fluid retention in the body. Similarly, if you consume a lot of carbs, then it can have an impact on fluid retention.

Menstruation
Most of the women gain weight when they are menstruating. This happens due to fluctuating hormones. The breast can get tender and you might feel bloated when you are bleeding. But the best part is all these things will go away once your period is over.

Hormonal birth control
Hormonal birth control can also sometimes cause water weight gain. The estrogen and progestin in birth control pills can lead to the fluctuation of the scale.

Cortisol level
Cortisol, popularly known as “stress hormone,” can also at times be the reason behind your water weight gain. The hormone is responsible for keeping the blood sugar levels stable, balancing metabolism and reducing inflammation. Increase in the cortisol level might cause water retention.

Medications
Certain medication that you are taking might also be the culprit. Drugs for high blood pressure like calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs might cause water weight gain. If you think your meds are responsible for the fluctuation of the scale then ask your doctor for alternative medicines.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for physician’s advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.