text: for women only...why am i so bloated!? i just don't get it.  some days my tummy is flat and other days it is so huge and bloated.  it's like a balloon that inflates and deflates whenever it wants to.  what can i do??? make sure you are drinking enough water, and stay away from caffeine.  it sounds strange to drink a lot of water, when bloating is actually caused by water retention.  but staying hydrated is the best way to make your body not retain water.  also, don't eat too many salty foods, salt also makes you retain water.  we all need some salt, but most of us get too much from eating bad foods, like fast foods and chips and junk, and processed foods, like canned soups or frozen dinners.  p.s.- don't take water pills, they can be dangerous.  only take them if your doctor recommends it.