Water retention, or fluid retention, refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body’s tissues, often leading to bloating or puffiness. In fitness, water retention can affect appearance, especially in bodybuilding or weight-sensitive sports.
Certain supplements, especially creatine, can cause temporary water retention as part of their mechanism. Athletes may also experience changes in water balance due to sodium intake, hormonal fluctuations, or overtraining.
Understanding water retention is important for managing expectations around weight and appearance during supplementation or dietary changes.
Synonyms:
Fluid retention, Edema (in clinical contexts).
Benefits:
(Not typically beneficial, but can indicate certain physiological states.)
- Signals changes in hydration or electrolyte balance
- Can be part of muscle volumization effects (e.g., creatine)
Sources:
Not an ingredient, but a physiological condition influenced by diet, hydration, and supplementation.
Observations:
Temporary and reversible. Can be managed with hydration, diet, and exercise. Persistent or extreme cases may require medical evaluation.
Areas of Study Related:
- Exercise Physiology
- Renal Function
- Endocrinology