DO YOU GO OVERBOARD PERIODICALLY?
I think we all do it from time to time. Maybe you slack from the gym and load up on extra decadent foods over vacation or you let yourself go crazy over every little holiday season.
This overindulgence can naturally cause fat accumulation but you will also carry extra water which will only add to your discomfort.
I don’t advocate eating like a piggy repeatedly as it will work against your goals to be lean and mean. BUT…..if you have and you now also feel like a “water pig” then I have some tips for you to help you see some quick results and get back on the right track.
I just wanted to explain something before I get into that.
“Bloat” is otherwise known as water retention. It is an unfortunate side effect of too much enjoyment in the food and lack of exercise department. There are also hormonal factors that can aggravate this problem.
Our body works diligently to maintain an optimum fluid balance. It is needed for good health and life.
There are two factors that often throw off this balance: 1. Too much salt 2. Too much sugar
Now, don’t panic! The scale may read that you have jumped 10lbs in just 3 days, but the bulk of that weight is likely water weight.
In order to free yourself of that expanded, “fluffy” feeling you will have to integrate some dietary strategies, exercise modifications and possibly some natural supplements.
Here are some quick tips:
- Increase your water intake
- Increase your fiber intake
- Reduce your sodium intake- stay away from salt based spices etc.
- Increase sweating through exercise
- Increase sweating through the use of a sauna or tanning bed
- Stick to clean eating- no processed or refined foods
- Increase your protein intake
Let me emphasize tip number one again: HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!!
It will likely take you about 5-7 days of clean eating and physical activity to see a crisp six pack again. However, you can speed the process up by 2-4 days by incorporating some natural supplements that promote water loss along with the above suggestions.
Oh and by the way…if you are hoping this will reveal a six pack when you did not have one before you went on your bender then keep on dreaming. It won’t happen. The only way to make that reality is to consistently lead a lifestyle tailored to produce that sort of result. Sorry! I have to be honest.
Some effective ones are:
Dandelion Root:
The root of this plant is an effective natural diuretic that works well for mild to moderate cases of water retention. It stimulates the kidneys to increase water and salt excretion.
Dandelion Root is also a good source of potassium which is important for fluid regulation. Many other natural and pharmaceutical aids increase loss of this vital mineral.
Tinctures/Teas and Powders are always best sources for concentrated Dandelion Root. A recommendation would be to take 500mg of powder extract 1-3 times daily with water.
It is also important to make sure you are taking the root and not the leaves as they offer different properties.
Juniper Berry:
You will commonly see this herb used in conjunction with Dandelion Root as its effects are similar. It is a mild diuretic that can offer additional benefits such regulating blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation. Juniper berry can be taken with Dandelion Root in 2-3 doses of 30-40 mg.
It is important to remember to consult your physician if you have an existing health condition and/or are taking any medication before starting any of the above supplements. It would also be advisable to familiarize yourself with all the possible risks and side effects of taking any supplement before starting.
Rest assured that your body will return to normal after you have returned to healthy eating and exercise. It will just take some time.
Natural supplementation can be a safe and effective way to speed the process along and have you feeling fit instead of fluffy!
Yours in Health,
Tammy Strome
