Yes, salt can cause water retention in the very healthiest of people. Once upon a time, military personnel were issued salt tablets when having to perform strenuous duty in places where the appropriate amount of water was unavailable -- purposefully trying to retain water. Most women retain water at different hormonal times (cycles, pregnancy). Most men I've known don't have that much problem with it until they go on blood pressure meds, some of which can cause fluid retention in some people. Strangely enough, for many healthy people, the answer to fluid retention is simply more water to flush the sodium out. Many dieters fall into the trap of using OTC diuretics, then not drinking enough water. You'll wind up in the emergency room (know two women who did). "Natural" diuretics are caffeine, alcohol, asparagus. Needless to say, the middle one can cause dangerous dehydration when overindulged. Who out there knows what other fruits and veggies act as diuretics? There have to be more. Water weight really varies by time of day -- right after your workout, or first thing in the morning, there will be less. It is simply a mistake to consider this a problem unless it really IS (talk to your doctor, who will let you know). Obsessing about water weight when on a weight loss program is really a frustration. Chose one time of day to weigh, and the water weight will be about the same, so simply won't matter.
