You can retain up to 2.5 kg of fluid per day. Here’s how to get rid of the excess.

You Can Retain Up to 2.5 kg of Fluid a Day — Here’s What It Means and How to Reduce It

If you’ve ever stepped on a scale and suddenly noticed a 1–2 kg increase overnight, you’re not alone. In many cases, that rapid change isn’t fat gain—it’s fluid retention.

The human body can temporarily hold onto a significant amount of water—sometimes up to 2.5 kg (about 5.5 lbs) in a day—depending on diet, hormones, activity level, and other factors.

But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?