HCTZ (Hydrochlorothiazide)

Function

This medication is in a class known as thiazide diuretics, or electrolytic and water balance agents. According to "Prentice Hall Nurse's Drug Guide," HCTZ is effective in decreasing the absorption of sodium in the kidneys, causing excretion of water, potassium and bicarbonates. Excretion of these substances reduces swelling associated with heart disease and lowers blood pressure. Therapeutic uses include treatment of congestive heart failure, hypertension and kidney failure.

 

Foods That Are Natural Diuretics

• A number of foods are natural diuretics that can produce the same effect on the body as hydrochlorothiazide. Natural diuretic foods include asparagus, artichokes, juniper berries, melons, watercress and parsley. Coffee and tea also act as diuretics but contain high amounts of caffeine, which can cause some people to become jittery if consumed in large amounts.
  A simple diuretic diet limits the intake of foods that are high in salt or sugar. The diet should consist of fruits and vegetables and at least eight glasses of water per day. Carbohydrates such as those found in breads and rice should be eaten in small amounts.
  Ginger and dandelion have diuretic properties, along with juniper and fennel seed. These can be taken in a capsule form that contains the extracts of the herbs. Watermelons, beets, oats and cucumbers naturally increase the removal of fluids and toxins from the body. Apple cider has a cleansing effect and is highly recommended as a natural diuretic.

Apple cider vinegar -- is a natural diuretic and helps maintain potassium levels.
Artichoke -- natural diuretic
Asparagus -- contains asparagines, a chemical alkaloid which helps flush the kidneys.
Beets -- attacks floating body fat and fatty deposits.
Brussels sprouts -- cleanse the cell and stimulate thought kidneys and pancreas.
Cabbage -- breaks up fatty deposits.
Carrots -- speeds up metabolic rate and helps remove fat and waste from the body.
Cranberry juice -- aids in the removal of excess fluid from the body.
Cucumber -- stimulate the kidney and aid in the removal of uric acid.
Dandelion And Dandelion Leaf -- natural diuretic, and leaf key aides in the detoxification of the urinary tract.
Green tea -- natural diuretic and has been used for centuries in China.
Fennel -- has a calmative and diuretic property.
Horseradish -- speeds up the metabolism and helps eliminate fluid.
Lettuce -- aids in metabolism and flushing of toxins from the system.
Nettle -- has natural diuretic properties.
Oats -- contains silica in natural diuretic.
Tomatoes -- are rich in vitamin C that aids metabolism in the release of water from the kidneys.
Watermelon -- natural diuretic helps increased urination.