Fluid Retention During Fasting: Myth Or Reality – Every day, more people fast to lose weight and improve their health and mood. But others do not dare because there are false beliefs, such as that they will suffer from fluid retention during fasting.
Yes, as with any popular trend, there is a lot of misinformation about this lifestyle.
We will help you separate fact from fiction by telling you why water retention during fasting is a myth and not a reality.
Table of Contents
Why Is Fasting Believed To Cause Fluid Retention?
There are no medical educations to support this claim. So, where did this belief come after?
Many people can have swelling when fasting, sometimes accompanied by fluid retention.
BUT… most of the time, this retention is not because of fasting but for other reasons.
For example, the person overeats at the end of their fasting period, especially if they abuse carbohydrates and processed foods high in sodium.
Drinking too much water or soft drinks also increases the chances of retaining fluids.
Drinking Enough Water Enhances The Effects Of Fasting
Many people who plan to start fasting wonder: If I have to spend hours just drinking water, will that make me retain fluids?
Here’s the answer!
You abstain from all foods within a specified period when you’re fasting. But it would help if you stay hydrated for several reasons:
Maintains, the proper functioning of cells.
Fasting will be able to execute your detoxification process of proteins and other structures that no longer serve the body.
Benefits general health. Including fat loss and brain function.
And something significant: it will take care of the health and proper functioning of the liver and kidneys, which is essential to expel liquids during fasting.
High-intensity exercise on an empty stomach also decreases fluid retention, as cell membranes can be remodelled and swelling reduced.
For this and more, there are enough reasons to start fasting without the fear that you will retain fluids.
How Much Liquid Should You Drink While Fasting?
Hydration is crucial during fasting, so make sure you stay well hydrated.
Water is a calorie-free drink that will be your great ally until you finish your fast because it fills your stomach. It will make it much easier for you to fast and make the transition back to food smoother.
You can drink it with gas or flavour it by adding a slice of fruit or lemon juice, as long as it does not add calories to your drink. You can also consume infusions, tea and coffee, but without sweeteners.
How much drink should you consume? Drink when you are thirsty and when you feel starving.
Please pay attention to your thirst during fasting because it can signify dehydration. If you’re busy or distracted, you might miss it, but remember that staying well hydrated helps you avoid fluid retention while fasting.
Another way to tell if you’re well-hydrated is by looking at the colour of your urine. If it is light yellow or relatively weak, you are well hydrated.
Avoid Discomfort When Fasting By Maintaining Electrolyte Balance
A reality that many are unaware of is that electrolytes can lose during fasting, minerals that play an essential role in your body, including the regulation of water balance and cellular hydration.
One of the reasons it’s hard to fast for long periods is that the body can’t get enough electrolytes.
It is what is happening:
When food is entirely restricted, insulin and blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to retain less sodium and water.
Low insulin causes the body to retain less water and sodium, which it excretes through urine.
That causes electrolyte imbalances, and you can experience cramps, fatigue, spasms, muscle weakness, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms of dehydration.
Electrolyte supplements are very beneficial, and you can take them without breaking your fast. Electrolyte Max is ideal because it replenishes lost electrolytes quickly and safely.
