Magnesium for Fluid Retention

Fluid retention, also known as swelling, bloating, or edema, occurs when the body accumulates excessive fluids. 

Fluid retention means that the cells in the body are hydrated more than they need to be. It may be caused by hormonal changes, medications, illness, or changes in diet. 

There are several methods to reduce the excess water retention in the body. This can be achieved through some easy dietary changes. 

Supplementing the body with vital minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium may also help get rid of water retention. 

Magnesium is a vital mineral responsible for several body functions. But, can it treat edema? Let’s find out.  

How Does It Work: 

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral present in the body. It is essential for good health, and regulates more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It is also known to reduce edema.

Animal research supports the idea that perinatal magnesium deficiency can cause edema in infants. A study published in "Biology of the Neonate" in 1999 found that when pregnant rats were given a low-magnesium diet, the mortality rate of their babies increased. They also had considerably higher levels of edema and hemorrhages.

What Are The Sources Of Magnesium: 

Green vegetables, such as spinach, are excellent sources of magnesium, as the chlorophyll molecule contains magnesium. 

Some legumes (beans and peas), whole unrefined grains, nuts and seeds, are also good sources of magnesium. 

Bread made from whole grain wheat flour contains more magnesium than bread made from white refined flour. 

Tap water can also be a good source of magnesium, but the amount varies according to the water supply. 

If you have edema, follow a diet that includes a variety of nuts, seeds, whole grains and green leafy vegetables. 

Swiss chard and boiled spinach, among other green vegetables, are the excellent sources of the mineral. 

Fishes (such as halibut and cod) are good sources of magnesium. Some ready-to-eat breakfast cereals also contain magnesium. 

Case Studies: 

A study published in the Journal of Women's Health in 1998 reported 200 milligrams of magnesium oxide administered daily for two menstrual cycles notably reduced premenstrual water retention in the second month of taking supplementation. 

Recommended Dosage: 

The Mayo Clinic recommends taking 200 mg of magnesium supplements two to three times a day to get relief from water retention. Women suffering from kidney or heart disease should avoid taking magnesium supplementation. 

Are There Any Side Effects: 

Dietary magnesium does not pose any health risk; but taking magnesium supplements might cause some side effects such as abdominal cramping and diarrhea. 

Risk of magnesium toxicity increases with kidney failure, when the kidney fails to remove excess magnesium. 

High doses of magnesium-containing antacids and laxatives have also been related with magnesium toxicity. 

You should consult with your health care practitioner before taking magnesium supplements to determine the right dosage for you. 

For more information on Edema treatment, read these articles: Potassium & Fluid Retention, and Reduce Edema by Avoiding These Foods.