There are actually three classes of diuretics that work in different ways, says Ellen Lunenfeld, M. Each class works on a different part of the kidney's nephron where urine is made, says Lunenfeld.
Actually, it goes a little deeper than that. Here's what you need to know about water pills—and why you should definitely skip self-prescribing them. Take note of that word: prescribed.
Water pills are meant to help reduce blood pressure, prevent fluid buildup, and reduce swelling respectively, says Linda Anegawa, M. They're usually given to people with health issues like hypertension, heart failure, and idiopathic edema unexplained swelling —not people looking to cure mild bloating or lose weight.
Most doctors recommend against using water pills for those purposes. That's because OTC water pills and prescriptions water pills aren't the same thing. Going a step further, OTC water pills could even be toxic and interact badly with other medicines you're taking, says Anegawa.
Again, with a prescription, a doctor will be monitoring this. But there's little — if any — scientific evidence to prove that these herbs or supplements have diuretic effects, so you may not find them effective. Whether you're hoping to lose water weight as part of a weight-loss goal or you're concerned about water retention related to menstruation, focus on eating a healthier diet, cutting back the salt in your diet, and getting plenty of exercise and activity — instead of taking diuretics.
Katherine Zeratsky, R. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health. Error Email field is required. Error Include a valid email address. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information and to understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your e-mail and website usage information with other information we have about you.
If we combine this information with your PHI, we will treat all of that information as PHI, and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of e-mail communications at any time by clicking on the Unsubscribe link in the e-mail.
Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. However, supplements are not regulated and may or may not contain what they claim. It is important to consult a physician before increasing an intake of natural diuretic, especially if a prescribed diuretic or other medication is already in use. Long-term use of diuretics can cause mineral deficiencies.
As a result, mineral levels should be closely monitored while taking diuretics. Some diuretics can lead to low levels of potassium in the blood. Symptoms of low potassium levels include:. Diuretics are not helpful for losing weight.
Anyone who wishes to lose weight should follow a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly. Any weight lost will return as the body rehydrates. Natural diuretics may not be effective in lowering high blood pressure or resolving other problems that diuretic drugs may be used for. Other medications may be needed for this. Salt is a mineral needed for the body's nerves and fluid levels. How does having too much or too little affect our health, and how much should we…. There are many ways to improve cardiac health, and watching what we eat is one of the most important.
Here, we provide details of 16 heart-healthy…. Drinking water is often overlooked as a necessary part of staying healthy. The body and blood are largely made of water, and so we need a lot of fluid…. Healthy potassium levels support kidney function, moderate blood pressure, bone strength, and muscle mass. Here, learn how much is right and where to….
In this article, we list simple, natural lifestyle techniques for tackling water weight. Here are 13 of the best vitamin D supplements, according…. This is a detailed review of vitamin D toxicity and how much vitamin D is considered too much.
Toxicity is rare, but can occur with extremely high…. When taken in safe doses, magnesium can effectively prevent migraines for many people.
Learn more about if it's right for you. Folic acid supplements are generally safe — unless you take too much. Here are 4 folic acid side effects you should know about. Women over the age of 50 have increased needs for several vitamins and minerals.
Here are the 10 best multivitamins for women over Taking certain dietary supplements may be beneficial for lung health. See which vitamins our registered dietitian recommends as the best for…. Gummy vitamins are increasingly popular. This article tells you whether they are good or bad for your health. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Here are the top 8 natural diuretics and a look at the evidence behind each one. Share on Pinterest. Dandelion Extract.
Summary: Dandelion extract is a popular herbal supplement thought to be a diuretic due to its high potassium content. One small human study found that it had diuretic effects, but more research is needed.
Summary: Horsetail is an herbal remedy that has been conventionally used as a diuretic for mild water retention. One small study found it to be as effective as the diuretic medication hydrochlorothiazide.
However, no human studies have examined how effective parsley is as a diuretic. Summary: Parsley has traditionally been used as a diuretic and may have a mild diuretic effect. However, there are no human studies, so its effects remain unclear. Hibiscus is a family of plants known for producing beautiful and brightly colored flowers. Summary: Hibiscus may have a mild diuretic effect.
However, it has not yet been proven effective in a human study.
0コメント