Getting relief

To reduce premenstrual water retention, consider:

• Limiting salt in your diet. Eating a lot of salty food might make water retention worse.
• Magnesium. Taking magnesium supplements might help reduce water retention. Talk to your doctor before taking a supplement.
• Water pills (diuretics). These medications are available by prescription to help reduce fluid buildup. Be aware that taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve, others), and diuretics at the same time can cause kidney damage.

Some evidence also suggests that regular aerobic exercise and relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, meditation, yoga and massage, can lessen PMS symptoms.