HOUSTON (Nov. 21, 2023) — Prescription diuretics often are taken to help the body eliminate excess water and salt — and they currently are used to treat conditions such as congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and edema (water retention).

But can natural diuretics provide similar benefits without side effects or toxicity?

Forbes Health recently took that question to Alexander Postalian, MD, a cardiologist with The Texas Heart Institute Center for Cardiovascular Care.

In the article, he explains the purpose of diuretics, reasons they commonly are prescribed, and which patients may benefit from their use.

Dr. Postalian notes that, while generally safe, natural treatments raise concerns due to their unpredictable effects and limited research. Unlike FDA-approved drugs with rigorous testing and consistent dosages, natural treatments lack extensive clinical trials, making them less favorable among traditional physicians.

For this reason, Dr. Postalian encourages patients to consult with their physicians before using natural diuretics, a practice particularly important for those with underlying health concerns.

Read the full story: https://bit.ly/40YTVI7