Water Works

Diuretics, naturally occurring in food or provided as medication, can help to reduce fluid build-up in the body.

Diuretic compounds can help the kidneys remove sodium (salt) and water from the body. Having the appropriate amount of fluid in the body helps to maintain normal blood pressure.

Diuretics help to lower the amount of fluids in the veins and arteries, assisting in maintaining fluid levels and blood pressure levels.

People may be prescribed diuretic medications to assist with maintaining appropriate blood pressure levels. There are several classes of diuretic medications, including thiazide, loop diuretics and potassium-sparing.

Some medications may include more than one type of diuretic, using several actions to assist with fluid levels.

In addition to blood pressure control, diuretics may also be used to prevent, treat or improve symptoms in people who have heart or liver failure, chronic fluid retention and certain kidney disorders. Taking diuretics may have some side effects, including frequent urination, hyponatremia (too little sodium in the blood) or hypokalemia (too little potassium in the blood).

Although not a replacement for medications, many foods naturally contain diuretic components. The caffeine in coffee can act like a diuretic that is, triggering the nervous system to tell the kidneys to release fluid. This fluid can contain sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium; something to consider if there is excessive daily caffeine intake.

Green or black tea has less caffeine than coffee and also has antioxidants, which may help to stay healthy. Herbal teas may not have caffeine, but some herbs used to make teas, such as ginger, ginseng or hibiscus have some diuretic properties.

Watermelon is an interesting combination of hydration and diuretic effects. Watermelon has lots of water, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants… and it also can have a diuretic effect. The balance of water, minerals and diuretic components makes watermelon a two-pronged hydrator/fluid balancer.

Celery can contain potassium, magnesium and calcium and is about ninety percent water. In homeopathic medicine, celery seed was used as a diuretic. Recent studies have shown that coconut water, which is helpful for hydration, may also have a mild diuretic effect. Coconut water may have a component that suppresses the hormone that tells the body to retain fluid.

Parsley has also been used in homeopathic medicine to help to maintain the body’s fluid balance. There is not a lot of support for this, but parsley contains minerals and antioxidants and can be used to flavor savory foods rather than relying on salt.

When taking diuretic medication, depending on what is going on in the body, people may be instructed to what fluid and sodium intake, so the medication can provide the best possible outcome. Every person’s needs are different, so fluid, sodium and diuretic intake should be planned with a health care provider.

Questions or ideas for topics? Please contact Nancy at foodprof2@gmail.com.