Fluid retention can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable. Thanks to natural diuretic foods, you don't necessarily have to take a diuretic medication to reduce this discomfort. Instead, you can eat foods that contain high levels of water or foods known to flush water out of the body, both of which have diuretic effects. Before beginning a diuretic diet, it is a good idea to check with your physician to ensure the foods you eat will not interfere with any health conditions or the medications you take.
Herbs
Certain herbs that have a diuretic effect can be added to teas or ground up and included in your foods. These include celery seeds, parsley, dandelion and juniper berries. Most herbs can be purchased at health foods stores. Parsley, for example, is a common herb used in cooking and flavoring foods. You also can add these and other vegetables that have high water content to soups.
Water-Rich Fruits
Fresh fruits that are naturally water-rich are natural diuretics that can reduce water retention. Adding more water to your body reduces water retention because a larger amount of water signals the kidneys that water can be released instead of retained. Melons are an example of water-rich fruits. Try slicing watermelon, honeydew or cantaloupe for natural diuretic options. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and nectarines also have high water content. You also can eat apples, strawberries or cherries as a natural diuretic. A 100-calorie serving of grapes contains about one and two-thirds cups of water.
Vegetables
Many fresh vegetables are natural diuretics. These include asparagus, artichokes and watercress. Other vegetables that have high water content include lettuce, bell peppers, cucumbers, squash, celery and spinach. Eating these vegetables are especially beneficial because they add volume to your diet, but do not contain a significant amount of calories. This means your body feels fuller while you reduce the amount of water retained.
Foods to Avoid
Just as certain foods are diuretics, others are known to cause fluid retention. When eating to avoid water retention, do not eat foods like processed foods high in sodium, such as French fries, pizza or chips. Sugary foods also can cause fluid retention. Starchy carbohydrates like bread and rice also can cause the body to retain fluids.
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