Four Foods That are Natural Diuretics

Do you suffer from water retention around “that time of the month”? It’s not uncommon for women to experience mild bloating and water retention premenstrually which can be related to hormonal fluctuations. This can cause symptoms of breast fullness, bloating, and mild ankle swelling, particularly if the weather is hot. While there are diuretic medications that can relieve water retention, many of these prescription medications are too strong to treat premenstrual swelling and can cause potassium levels to drop. Fortunately, nature has provided foods that can help to relieve premenstrual fluid retention naturally. Although the effects of these foods may be mild, they may be effective in mild cases. Here are some foods that are natural diuretics.

Parsley

Parsley is an herb that has mild diuretic properties. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that rats given parsley seed extract experienced greater urine volume. Although adding fresh parsley to recipes may have some benefits, the most effective way to get the natural diuretic effects of parsley is to enjoy it as a tea.

Ginger

Ginger does more than add flavor to food. Not only does it help to relieve the nausea which can occur premenstrually, but it also helps with the water retention. Drinking ginger tea with meals is a safe and effective way to eliminate excess fluid without using prescription medications.

Celery Seed

Celery seed is derived from flowers that are part of the celery plant. These tiny seeds have demonstrated the ability to naturally increase urine flow and decrease fluid retention. Celery seed tablets can be purchased at most health food stores and online. As an alternative to tablets, a hot tea can be made from celery seeds and sipped with meals.

Dandelion

Dandelion leaves have long been thought to have natural diuretic properties. Although some animal studies support the diuretic effects of dandelion leaves, there have been few studies to confirm its benefits in humans. Despite this, there’s anecdotal evidence suggesting that it does increase urine flow and lessen fluid retention. It’s also a good source of potassium, a mineral that’s frequently lost with use of prescription diuretics. You can buy standardized dandelion extracts at most health food stores or simply enjoy dandelion leaves as a homemade tea.

Other ways to relieve water retention is by reducing salt intake and eating raw vegetables with a high water content such as cucumbers, lettuce, celery, and other leafy greens. This will naturally stimulate urine flow while providing your body with additional potassium that can be lost with the use of higher powered diuretics.

Keep in mind that bloating and water retention can be a sign of more serious medical problems. Always see a doctor before attempting self treatment.