8 Diuretic Foods That Can Help You Lose That Water Weight

Detox water is a trend that has been making the rounds in the recent years. It has such vibrant variations where water is infused with freshly cut lemons, cucumbers, watermelons and so on to give you an instant boost of energy. Detox water is nothing but a type of diuretic. Diuretic is a substance that is responsible for the excretion of excess sodium and water content in the body. They are available as pills as well, but it is always better to treat yourself naturally instead of relying on chemicals.Why Do You Need Diuretic Foods?We all know that our weight fluctuates due to water weight in our body. This needs to be flushed out with the help of certain foods, called diuretics, in order to reduce the weight and make us feel less bloated. Diuretics are known to reduce hypertension as well by flushing out sodium from the body and getting rid of harmful toxins through urine.“These foods help clear your system by flushing out the water retained in the body and reduces bloating but they should be taken in moderation as excess of everything is bad. Excessive intake can flush out vital electrolytes, which are needed by your body, leaving you feeling week due to electrolyte imbalance. A person on anti-hypertensive drugs should not consume diuretic foods as these drugs are a diuretic themselves,” says Dr. Rupali Datta, a Delhi-based Nutrition Consultant.
 Diuretic Foods to Include in Your Diet
 
Some diuretic foods that you can incorporate in your everyday meals are -1. CucumberCucumbers have a high water content and contains caffeic acid that helps to get rid of water retention in our body. It also contains certain nutrients that help in flushing out uric acid from the kidney, plus it is low in calories, which makes it a good pick for those looking to lose weight.
  2. Cranberry
 
It is full of antioxidants and vitamin C, and helps in flushing out all the excess water. According to the book Healing Foods by DK Publishers, cranberries have a nondialyzable material (NDM) which prevents kidney, bladder and urinary track infections (UTIs).
 3. WatermelonsThey contain 92% water and are loaded with vitamins and minerals, which have a diuretic effect on our body. Watermelons are super healthy, and help in flushing out all the toxic substances from the body.
  4. CeleryCelery has coumarin, which helps to prevent high blood pressure as well as in cleansing the system by excreting all unwanted water in the form of urine that is retained in the body. It eases digestion and relieves bloating. “The high water and electrolytes content in Celery prevents dehydration and compounds present in celery cause it to act as a diuretic and reduce instances of bloating,” says Delhi-based nutritionist Simran Sinha.
 5. GingerIt can be taken in the form of ginger tea or just simple ginger infused water (keep it overnight to infuse the flavours well). It naturally aids digestion and helps clear out all harmful toxins in the body. It is believed to be one of the most effective diuretic foods.
 6. CarrotsCarrots are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that facilitate detoxification in the body, which in turn helps the system to discharge all the toxins. Carrots are also an essential ingredient to be added in the diet as it strengthens our eye sight and replenishes our body with vitamin K and A. Carrot juice works as a miracle in maintaining cholesterol and blood sugar levels, thanks to its potassium content. It also increases bile secretion, which helps in burning fat thus aiding weight loss.
 7. Lemon
 
It helps flush out bacteria, prevent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), lessen bloating and cleanse the system completely. Lemon has potassium, which builds our immunity. If you cannot eat a lemon as it is then you can always drink fresh lemon juice which works just fine.
 8. CinnamonCinnamon has a compound referred to as mineral chromium, which keeps one's appetite under control. It is a great spice for improving our immunity and clearing the system, with all the necessary minerals, vitamins and fibers all packed into one. It plays a great detoxification role. Many times it is also referred to as a "cleanse" drink when added to a glass of water.“I personally like drinking hot water with 1-2 cinnamon sticks added to it which works perfectly for me to flush out all the excess water and toxins from my body,” adds Dr. Rupali.
 
Incorporate these in your regular meals but make sure that you do not go overboard with them as there are some vital minerals you do not want to flush out, therefore balance your intake. Be sure to consult a dietician before incorporating these food items in your daily meals if you are on a diuretic pill.Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.