5 Foods That Are Natural Diuretics

If you suffer from occasional water retention or a more serious condition known as edema, here are 5 foods that are natural diuretics that will help you shed that unwanted water. Eating the right foods in the proper amount will begin to relieve that uncomfortable bloated feeling.

1. Cucumbers. Raw cucumbers have a very high water content that encourages urination, making it a natural diuretic. Cucumbers are low in calories and are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Cucumbers should be peeled, washed, eaten raw in a salad, on sandwiches or as a plain a snack.
2. Watermelon. Watermelon is 92 percent water, giving it a high diuretic value. Watermelon is rich in beta carotene, folic acid, vitamins C and several B vitamins as well as a long list of essential minerals including antioxidants. Eat watermelon by the slice or juice it in a blender and strain into a glass for a refreshing diuretic drink.
3. Carrots. Carrots are one of the most medicinal diuretic vegetables due to high content of vitamins, minerals, calcium and antioxidants. Carrot juice, used in moderation, will help the body eliminate excess fluids while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots should be eaten raw or juiced.
4. Asparagus. Asparagus is a member of the same family as leeks, garlic and onions and is available year round. Its high content of the amino acid, asparagines, gives asparagus the power expel waste and excess water from the body. Eating asparagus can cause unusual urine odor but it is not a matter for concern. Asparagus can be steamed or juiced for consumption.
5. Tomatoes. It is said that tomatoes are the perfect food. Tomatoes are actually a fruit, not a vegetable. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals that help the body expel toxins and improve kidney function. Eat tomatoes raw in salad, on sandwiches, cooked or juiced. To create a potent diuretic drink, add two to three tablespoons of lemon juice to your tomato juice.

Note:

A serving of vegetables is one half cup. The recommended dietary requirements for an adult are five to eight servings of vegetables each day. Drink eight eight ounce glasses of water each day to avoid dehydration. Use juice in moderation. For instance, it takes several oranges to make eight ounces of orange juice. You would not normally eat several oranges at a meal.

References: 

Joan and Lydia Wilen. "Healing Remedies." Ballantine Books 2008.

Prevention Magazine. "Doctor's Book of Home Remedies." Rodale 2002.