According to my (slightly-outdated
) copy of
Our Body Ourselves, PMS water retention is typically between 2-4 lbs, although it could be even more depending on your body type, current weight, hormonal levels and usage of contraceptive devices. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm
not recommending that you stuff yourself full of dangerous diuretics or that you go on an asparagus binge, but I am absolutely in love with the Traditional Medicinals PMS Tea (just google "traditional medicinals pms tea", it won't let me link to it). It's a very, very slight diuretic, completely safe and natural, and I find that it helps enormously with that crampy, bloated feeling. I have one cup in the morning and another in the afternoon each day of my TOTM, and it really does minimize my water retention. Just make sure you drink water and stay hydrated as usual throughout the day. I'm not normally one to push products on people, but this tea is great! You can find it at most pharmacies, drugstores, health stores, and even at a lot of larger grocery stores. Best of luck!