Question:
I have a fluid retention problem. I wake in the mornings puffy — mainly in the legs, upper arms and hands. I drink plenty of water, around one to two litres each day, and urinate often, but still retain the fluid. Some nights I am in agony because of it. Please help as I can't stand it anymore. Thank you.

Answer:
You should try a diet containing less sodium and more protein. Use less salt at the table and in cooking (this means limiting takeaway and foods prepared by others since they may add salt); choose lower salt products (salt-free margarines, low salt breads and crackers, low salt tinned foods like soup and baked beans); avoid salty pressed meats and cheeses (ham, smoked salmon, anchovies, parmesan, cheddar slices); and avoid stock cubes, soy sauce, bottled sauces (other than lower salt ones like salt reduced soy or tomato sauce), pickles and foods like olives. Include protein at every meal but watch out for pressed cold cuts, cheeses and seasoned foods like the stuffing or fried coating on barbecue chicken. You could add lean meats to your diet like chicken, fish, eggs or unsalted nuts, legumes or milk. This will reduce fluid retention and that bloated feeling.