When your body is retaining fluid, as often happens with heart failure, your healthcare team may recommend limiting how much liquid you get. Many people are prescribed diuretics (water pills) to help them get rid of extra water and sodium and reduce their heart's workload.
You may feel thirsty but your body may not need more liquids. Take care not to replace the fluid that diuretics are helping to get rid of. Try sucking on sugar-free hard candy to help with a dry mouth.
Talk with your healthcare provider about how much liquid to drink every day. Many doctors recommend limiting fluids to eight cups per day (or 64 ounces total, since 1 cup = 8 ounces). This includes any water or other drinks taken with medications. Keep track of intake of all of your liquid intake, including foods that are high in liquids.
Fluids
- Water
- Juice
- Ice cubes
- Coffee
- Milk
- Soup
- Tea
- Soda
Foods
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Ice cream
- Gelatin
- Fruits
How to measure what you're actually consuming
Most people find it easier to keep track of what they consume by checking the sizes of their soup bowls, mugs, cups and different-sized glasses. This might seem tedious at first, but once it's done, it's done! Knowing each container's capacity will make it much easier to stay within the doctor's recommended limits.
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Fill each cup or dish with water, then pour it into a measuring cup used for baking and cooking.
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Label each glass or bowl with the number of cups or ounces that it holds (1 cup = 8 ounces).
Alcohol
Alcohol decreases the heart's ability to contract. If you have heart failure, you should discuss with your healthcare provider whether you can drink in moderation.
People who have alcohol-induced cardiomyopathy (heart muscle damage) should never drink alcohol.
Caffeinated and High-Salt Drinks
People with heart failure also should limit their intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, black tea and caffeinated soda. Caffeine is a stimulant that can put more stress on the heart. Decaffeinated coffee, tea and sodas are acceptable, but water and low-sugar fruit juice are healthier choices.
Also avoid beverages that are high in sodium such as canned tomato or vegetable juice. Choose foods and beverages low in sodium and check the potassium content.
This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 3/12/09.
