A diuretic is a substance that works to get rid of body fluid and salt through the urine. Diuretics come in many forms including food, OTC (Over The Counter) drugs, prescribed drugs and herbal medicines.
A diuretic forces the kidneys to release more sodium into the urine. When this occurs the body tries to balance out the concentration of sodium vs. water by taking water from the bloodstream, as the urine is being formed. The result is less fluid in the blood and decreased pressure on the walls of the arteries.
The most common uses for diuretics are for stress and problems related to high blood pressure. They are extremely effective in preventing and treating symptoms for many medical conditions such as: UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), congestive heart failure, glaucoma, stress, osteoporosis, edema, diabetes insipidus, polycystic ovary syndrome, liver disease and several different problems with the kidneys.
There are many different types of synthetic diuretics available at the store. Make sure that you take a close look at the side effects before trying any of these because they directly affect the all important kidneys. Lasix, Aldactone and hydrochlorothiazide are all available through a prescription from your doctor.
If you are looking for a milder solution then you can simply make a change in your diet. Many foods are natural diuretics. Cranberries, beverages containing caffeine, celery, apple cider vinegar, parsley, watercress, asparagus, melon and artichoke are all very good for you and can help you along your way. You should also make sure that you lower the amount of sodium in your diet and drink a lot of water.
Natural remedies are more effective than a diuretic food diet and do not come with side effects like prescription drugs. Dandelion and Buchu are well known for their diuretic qualities and are extremely effective at helping to relieve high blood pressure. They are also effective at lowering the retention of water in the body. Even though these diuretics are natural you should still use them with precaution because they are extremely effective.
When you are taking diuretics you can expect to urinate more often, so do not be alarmed. You may also have side effects like dizzy spells, dehydration, sudden change in potassium levels, drastically lower levels of sodium and impotence. Just make sure you read up on the side effects especially if you decide to use a synthetic diuretic. Talk with your doctor about any side effects that you have been experiencing.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health, emotional ailments & conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.massagebyben.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites 