Bloating may be the most elusive period symptom of them all. It can start before your period even arrives. It can be subtle, tricking you into thinking you’ve suddenly put on a few pounds. And while you may feel like you’re full of so much air that you could float away, bloating is actually due to a build up of water in the body.

How do you combat too much water? Add water! We know, confusing. But the more water you drink when you’re feeling bloated, puffy, and full, the more easily you’ll eliminate the water build up in your body. You’ll want to drink eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of fluid throughout the day (think: water, juice, milk). Do not try to drink it all at once! If you’re on-the-go, carry a water bottle with you so you don’t lose sight of staying hydrated throughout the day.

You can also try eating a lower sodium diet, eliminating caffeine and alcohol, avoiding processed foods, and staying physically active. If your bloating does not subside a few days after your period ends, or it’s so extreme that it is affecting your usual activities, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.