Oedema is an excessive collection of fluids in the body tissues. Subcutaneous oedema is a common occurrence in later pregnancy, manifesting with puffiness or swelling in the hands & feet. This will usually be mild and primarily affects the feet & ankle, reflecting the effect of gravity on the extra bodily fluids generated during pregnancy. This type of oedema is more pronounced after standing for long periods, in warm weather and as the day progresses, but will disappear with rest overnight.
1) Avoid eating too much raw or chilled foods
Foods that help to reduce oedema: corn, celery, lettuce, watercress, grapes, mandarin oranges, mangoes, watermelons, aduki beans, sardines, lentils, pea & jasmine tea.
2) Drink Barley water
Recipe:
3) Fluid intake important – 6-8 glasses per day of h2o
4) Avoid excessive use of salt
NOTE: However, if this oedema is persistant (does not disappear after resting or is still present first thing in the morning) and is accompanied by a rapid unexplained weight gain or swelling in the face, it requires medical monitoring. Please go to visit your GP or midwife to put your mind at rest.
Information from this article was written by Debra Betts –
For more information on Debra & her work please go to: http://acupuncture.rhizome.net.nz