You’ve been consistent with your workouts, eating clean, and doing everything right but your abs still aren’t showing the way you hoped this summer. If that sounds familiar, the issue might not be fat… it might be water retention.
It’s more common than you think. Even when your body fat is low, excess water stored under the skin can make your muscles look soft and less defined. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re on a beach holiday.
Water retention happens for many reasons mainly a high sodium diet, certain supplements, dehydration, and even stress. The good news is that with a few small tips (tested and tried), you can help your body shed the excess water and reveal the definition you’ve been working hard for.
1. Drink more water
It might seem counterintuitive, but staying well-hydrated helps your body release excess water. When you’re dehydrated, your body holds on to water as a protective response. Drinking enough water consistently supports your metabolism and helps reduce bloating.
2. Reduce salt
Too much salt in your diet is one of the most common causes of water retention. Try cutting back on processed foods, sauces, and salty snacks.
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3. Sweat it out
Regular exercise, especially workouts that get your heart rate up and make you sweat, can help flush out water weight. Think cardio, strength training, or even a long walk in the heat.
4. Watch your creatine intake
Some supplements, like creatine, naturally increase water retention in the muscles. If you’re trying to look lean and defined, it may be worth pausing for a short period.
5. Add asparagus and watermelon to your diet
Asparagus and watermelon are a natural diuretic, which means they can help your body release excess water.
Finally, water retention is temporary and manageable. These tips can help you look more defined; especially in the summer months.
(Photo credits: Patrick Schwarzenegger, White lotus)
