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There are several foodstuffs which act as diuretics, by blocking the brain secretion of anti-diuretic hormone, the hormone which opens the channels in the collecting ducts in order to retain water. These include alcoholic and caffeinated beverages (including coffee, tea, and guarana). Excessive amounts of either type of beverage, but especially alcoholic beverages, can make you very dehydrated.
There are also a number of herbs, sold as dietary supplements, which act as diuretics. These include dandelion (the French name for the dandelion is pissenlit, or "urinate in bed," in tribute to its diuretic function), buchu, juniper, parsley, uva ursi or barberry (=bear berry), and corn silk. While most of these herbs are mild diuretics and not particularly poisonous, you should never take any of these herbs without consulting with your physician first! And also remember, if you are (or could possibly be) pregnant, herbal remedies often contain ingredients which may be harmful to the fetus -- buchu may be one example of an herb that can be toxic to the fetus.
Diuretics, menstrual discomfort and weight loss
Many women feel bloated just before their periods -- while this can be uncomfortable, it is perfectly normal, and is caused by the raised hormone levels that occur during the second half of the normal menstrual cycle. Reducing the sodium content of your diet may minimize this bloating. If you wish to use a diuretic at this time it is very important to consult with your physician, who may prescribe a mild diuretic, with limited action, such as ammonium chloride. However, we suggest you follow this route only if the problems in the pre-menstrual period are so serious that you are truly handicapped, and then only under the supervision of a physician.
There are several foodstuffs which act as diuretics, by blocking the brain secretion of anti-diuretic hormone, the hormone which opens the channels in the collecting ducts in order to retain water. These include alcoholic and caffeinated beverages (including coffee, tea, and guarana). Excessive amounts of either type of beverage, but especially alcoholic beverages, can make you very dehydrated.
There are also a number of herbs, sold as dietary supplements, which act as diuretics. These include dandelion (the French name for the dandelion is pissenlit, or "urinate in bed," in tribute to its diuretic function), buchu, juniper, parsley, uva ursi or barberry (=bear berry), and corn silk. While most of these herbs are mild diuretics and not particularly poisonous, you should never take any of these herbs without consulting with your physician first! And also remember, if you are (or could possibly be) pregnant, herbal remedies often contain ingredients which may be harmful to the fetus -- buchu may be one example of an herb that can be toxic to the fetus.
Diuretics, menstrual discomfort and weight loss
Many women feel bloated just before their periods -- while this can be uncomfortable, it is perfectly normal, and is caused by the raised hormone levels that occur during the second half of the normal menstrual cycle. Reducing the sodium content of your diet may minimize this bloating. If you wish to use a diuretic at this time it is very important to consult with your physician, who may prescribe a mild diuretic, with limited action, such as ammonium chloride. However, we suggest you follow this route only if the problems in the pre-menstrual period are so serious that you are truly handicapped, and then only under the supervision of a physician.
