training tips main page

Aldosterone & Water Retention Part I

by Eric Serrano, M.D.

In my office I deal with many bodybuilders that want the secret of being shredded, ripped, lean, or without water at contest time. As you know this ripped and shredded look is the result of good dieting, right amounts of exercise and the control of the hormone aldosterone. In this article I am going to concentrate on the manipulation of aldosterone and water without the aid of drugs.

As you know, many bodybuilders use the shortcut of diuretics and therefore aren't as concerned with water retention at contest time. However, I like to work with natural athletes, so water retention is a major concern.

There are many myths that have been generated about getting rid of subcutaneous water. I want to discuss a few them and give you the right approach. When we are finished all you will need is a little planning and some practice.

Myth #1: Vitamin B6
I am sick of people asking me about the diuretic effects of B6. It has no effects at all. ZERO, ZILCH, NONE. In other words, it doesn't work.

Myth #2: Don't take any salt 4-5 days before a show.
Yeah, do this and you have a great chance of looking like the Pillsbury Dough Boy the day of the contest. The reason is your aldosterone levels will be sky high.

Myth #3: Take a lot of potassium before the contest.
Does this work? NO! You are only using this technique because you are abusing diuretics and diuretics get rid of intravascular potassium.

Real Manipulation of Water, Salt and the Hormone Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in our bodies. It is regulated mainly by Angiotensin II (another hormone) and potassium/salt (sodium) ratio in our bodies. Aldosterone has a half life of 15 minutes, that means that the body eliminates half of the concentration in 15 minutes. Also, it takes the body between 3 and 4 days to adjust to dietary changes in potassium and salt.

The main function of aldosterone is to maintain the intravascular volume. It does this by conserving sodium and eliminating potassium and hydrogen, exerting this action in the kidney, gut, salivary glands and brain.

Note: Before embarking on any nutrition, supplementation, and/or training program, consult with your physician or other licensed health-care professional.