It’s ironic, but consuming too little water can cause your body to retain water. Your kidneys must have adequate water to flush away waste from your body and when you don’t take enough water in, your kidneys will hoard water. Many individuals carry an extra 10, even 15, pounds of water that is trapped in their tissues. This can lead to bloating, cellulite, and a puffy face, especially under the eyes. These extra pounds are not the result of true fat, but of excess water. This can be from consuming too little water and protein, chemicals and preservatives in foods, hormonal issues, medications, and food intolerances. Food sensitivities are also one of the most common causes of weight issues from the excess fluid retention. The top food triggers are dairy, wheat, soy, peanuts, and corn.

Taking in little water or too many sodas or alcohol can slow your lymphatic system down. I call the lymphatic system the “purification system” of the body. If that’s slow, you are slow to detoxify. When your lymphatic system cannot carry away the excess debris, it accumulates in the fat cells, which causes cellulite and possible excess weight. Try drinking your water before or after your meals, not so much during, since that will hinder digestion, causing possible weight and G.I. issues. The stomach was meant to be acidic and full of enzymes to digest food. When you dilute that environment with too much liquid, you can waterlog your digestive system making it less effective. Remember, it’s not so much what we eat, it’s what we absorb.

Besides drinking adequate water, the trampoline or rebounder is an excellent way to pump your lymphatic system. Rebounding a few minutes today or for more cardio workout, try 20 to 30 minutes a day. This can provide tremendous results for weight loss, cellulite reduction, and toning. My little one loves it just as much as I do, as we practically do it every day for pure fun, fitness, and health.

Try this easy summer smoothie recipe to get bikini ready!

Jennifer’s Summer Smoothie

½ Banana

1 Handful Dinosaur Kale

1 Inner Leaf Aloe Vera (soothes G.I.)

3 to 4 Strawberries

Big Pinch of Cilantro (great detoxer)

1-Cup Homemade or Organic Almond Milk/Ice

2 Tbsp. Hemp Seeds

Plant Based Vanilla Protein Powder

xo,

Jennifer Van Horn DT, MS HS