Most nutrition professionals agree that losing water weight is more of a quick fix than a long-term solution.
With the rise in popularity ofweight-loss drugs, many people are trying over-the-counter diet pills, like diuretics.
This class of substances help the body release water, resulting in quick changes on the scale.
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Although rapid weight loss may sound appealing, you may be wondering if theyre safe or recommended by experts.
What Are Diuretics?
Certain conditionssuch as high blood pressure, heart failure or kidney issuesmay cause fluid buildup in the body.
Too much fluid is often coupled with excess sodium, which can be harmful to the body.
Diuretics tell receptors in the kidneys to reduce the uptake of sodium and remove it in the urine.
In short, diuretics make you pee more, resulting in water loss from your body, says Andrews.
Diuretics are most commonly found in medications, but there are diuretics in somefoods and beverages.
Do Diuretics Help with Weight Loss?
Diuretics are used to treat many health conditions, but they are also popular among those with weight-loss goals.
As soon as the water returns to the body, the weight is typically regained.
True weight loss involves losing body fat through calorie reduction and/or increased physical activity, says Andrews.
Should You Take Diuretics?
Simply put, most health professionals dont advise using diuretics for weight loss.
Diuretic medications should only be taken for the condition in which they are prescribed by your health care team.
Water weight fluctuates daily and does not play a role in long-term weight loss and maintenance.
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