Diuretic Foods
Diuretics, often known as water pills, are a commonly used type of medication that helps your body to rid itself of excess water and salt through the urine.
These medications are most commonly used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart, liver and kidney failure, cirrhosis, and for their use in sports such as bodybuilding. They flush water out of the muscles, making them look leaner, and are also used in boxing and mixed martial arts, to lose water weight before a weigh-in.
Although they can be a very effective treatment model, diuretic use isn’t without side its side effects, which include:
- Arrhythmia
- Blurred vision, dizziness and light-headedness
- Depression
- Severe dehydration: dark urine, constipation and a dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Sickness (vomiting)
- Skin rashes
If you want to experience the beneficial effects of diuretics without having to deal with the plethora of side effects that accompany the medication, look to natural diuretics found in food and drinks.
Traditionally, both eastern and western medical practitioners have utilised the diuretic properties of dandelion extract. Recent studies also prove its ability to rid the body of water. [57]
Evidence has also shown hibiscus to be an effective diuretic, and has also been shown to help kidney filtration. [58]
Other natural diuretics include:
- Caffeinated beverages: coffee, tea
- Herbal teas
- Raw dark chocolate
- Fruits including: pineapple, lemon, grape, cucumber, peach, cherries and blueberries
- Leafy green vegetables: lettuce, kale, cabbage, parsley and spinach
