The kidneys filter out water, sodium, and potassium, send a precise amount back into the blood stream and get rid of the excess as urine. Some health conditions interfere with kidney functioning, causing fluid retention. Diuretics promote sodium and urine loss through the kidneys, thus reducing water retention. They may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, so they should not be taken long-term or in the absence of a doctor's supervision.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables that are naturally high in water content have diuretic properties. These include celery, tomatoes, asparagus, cranberries and cranberry juice and watermelon. Cucumber is not only high in water content but also rich in sulfur and silicon that stimulates the kidneys. Melon and citrus fruits are particularly effective, because they also contain potassium, which balances the sodium in the kidneys and encourages urine excretion. Additional examples include tomatoes, celery, onion, beets, artichokes, horseradish, eggplant and leafy green lettuce.
Oats
Oats are a great source of fiber and have been shown to help fight cholesterol, but they also contain silica which is a natural diuretic.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar acts as a natural diuretic because it is rich in potassium which, like other melon and citrus fruits, helps balance the system and promote excess fluid loss.
Herbs
In the United States, herbal supplements and their claims are not regulated by the FDA. However, many alternative and complementary medicine practitioners assert that certain herbs can act as diuretics. Among these are Tilia cordata/platypus flowers, corn silk, dandelion, stinging nettle, hawthorn and parsley. Different parts of each herb may have different active properties, and some herbs may interact with other medications, so it is best to consult with a qualified health care professional who can advise you of the proper supplement and dose.
Fennel is a sweet, aromatic herb and food seasoning that has well-known diuretic properties as well.
Caffeine
Caffeine stimulates blood flow through the kidneys and therefore acts as a diuretic. While coffee is a well-known caffeinated diuretic, green tea is one of the healthiest diuretic beverage options. caffeine content not only help to flush the system, but it also has other known health benefits as well, including reducing the risk of heart disease and decreasing the likelihood of developing certain cancers. Chocolate that contains lecithin may also serve as a diuretic because it indirectly increases blood flow through the arteries and to the kidneys.
