Natural diuretic properties can be found in a variety of foods, ranging from fruits and vegetables to teas and seasonings. Diuretics from a natural source can sometimes be a better solution than over the counter as these can come with problems such as loss of important vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. Eating natural foods can also be more cost-effective and enjoyable than popping a pill.
While there are a number of reasons for fluid retention, such as a diet high in salt or sugar, low protein intake, and inadequate vitamin Bs, there are natural ways to fight fluid retention without taking a pill and risking health complications and dehydration. Among these natural diuretics are artichokes, asparagus, black currants, chives, brussel sprouts, fennel, radishes, and pumpkins. Moreover, there are foods most people consume in everyday life that offer the same properties as some of the harder to reach ones listed above.
Below are five everyday foods that are easy to find, can be consumed with little preparation and may already be within arms reach in the kitchen. All five of these foods have natural diuretic properties and are safe ways to fight inflammation and reduce water retention.
1. Lemon
Lemons have a natural diuretic and cleansing effect. They are often used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) as well as other urinary tract imbalances. Lemons are known to flush toxins out of the body and provide a cleansing effect. Taking in more lemons to your diet can be easy, by adding juice or cut up fruit to a glass of ice water, zesting your favorite dessert, or preparing a morning cleanse of squeezed lemon and warm water.
2. Garlic
Just about every recipe calls for garlic and onion. Garlic is very potent when eaten raw, however, that is when it has its strongest diuretic effect. Garlic works to flush out excess water from the body and also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Try adding garlic to salads, serving it fresh in salsas and dressings, or crushing it on top of your favorite meals.
3. Watermelon
A summertime favorite full of all kinds of good things, watermelon has a high level of water content and both hydrates and flushes toxins out of the body. Watermelon has several vitamins and antioxidants that have an anti-inflammatory effect. In addition to watermelon, other melons such as honeydew and cantaloupe can provide the same benefits. Try a fruit salad with melon, or snack on it by itself to easily aid your body in natural ways.
4. Green tea
Green tea has been used in Asia for centuries as a drink that provides many health benefits. Green tea helps to hydrate the body while fighting inflammation and preventing fluid build up. Green tea can also help with weight loss by aiding the body in burning fat as fuel. Another benefit, drinking green tea can boost your energy and can count toward your recommended water intake for the day. Try brewing a cup of hot green tea, or serving it cold to sip on during the day.
5. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is extremely rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Zinc. It is widely used to fight UTIs and is believed to fight the spread of cancerous tumors. It also carries many anti-aging benefits. Cranberry juice works as a natural diuretic and does not deplete the body of its necessary potassium. Sip on a glass in the morning to give your body a boost of vitamins and minerals, while also helping it to fight extra fluid.
In addition to helping the body eliminate excess water, natural diuretics can also work to increase metabolism, regulate digestion and are helpful in the treatment of certain ailments including high blood pressure and kidney stones. Since most of these natural remedies are fruits and vegetables, increasing consumption will provide the added health benefits of fiber and vitamins and minerals, all in addition to detoxifying the body of excess fluid.