Diuretic Foods: 9 Foods to Promote Urination and Bowel Movements.

Summer is a great time to show off your figure, but the hot and humid weather can easily cause the water from cold drinks to get trapped in your body, leading to weight gain. Many office workers often feel heavy in their lower limbs, their varicose veins worsen, and even though they're not eating much, their weight keeps going up. This is a sign that your body needs a detox.

I. Konjac

Konjac has been known since ancient times as an "intestinal cleanser" and is hailed in Japan as a "gastrointestinal scavenger." It is rich in "glucomannan," a type of dietary fiber that is not digested or absorbed by the human body. As it passes through the intestines, it absorbs water and expands, adhering to and carrying away fecal matter stuck to the intestinal walls, thus promoting bowel regularity.

Golden Pickled Cabbage

II. Cabbage

Cabbage is also known for its high fiber content among vegetables and can stimulate the intestines to eliminate waste. Cabbage is also rich in vitamins C and E, as well as vitamin K, which can increase the concentration of calcium ions in the blood, giving it excellent skin benefits.

III. Sweet Potato

When a raw sweet potato is cut, it secretes a white viscous fluid that helps prevent constipation. It's worth noting that sweet potatoes are best not eaten on an empty stomach, as this can easily cause heartburn.

IV. Seaweed

All edible seaweeds, such as kelp and nori, are rich in dietary fiber and have a laxative effect. Nori is exceptionally rich in soft dietary fiber, containing 4.8 grams per 100 grams of dried product. It acts as a "scavenger" in the human intestine, promptly clearing mucus, gas, and waste, which is beneficial for expelling harmful substances and effectively preventing rectal cancer and constipation.

V. Beans

Bean products are rich in fiber, which can absorb water in the intestines and be expelled along with waste. They can also break down fat and inhibit its accumulation, making them the top choice for detoxification and weight loss! Whether you eat red, green, black, yellow beans, or bean products like soy milk and tofu, the detox and slimming effects are excellent. It is highly beneficial to speed up toxin elimination if you plan at least two bean-based meals a week.

VI. Beetroot

Beetroot is high in fiber and rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Regular consumption can promote liver detoxification and aid the digestive system. You can add dark red beetroot to salads or blend it into juice and sweeten with honey. Honey is also a natural antibiotic; if you have a sore throat, you can squeeze a glass of warm lemon juice and add honey. Archaeologists have found honey in ancient Egyptian pottery jars that is thousands of years old and still sweet, not spoiled.

Braised Pickled Beetroot

VII. Turmeric

Curcumin, a key component of yellow curry powder, is a natural cleansing food that helps the liver perform a major detox. Curry is a great source of curcumin, or you can sprinkle turmeric powder directly on potato salad. Moderate intake of turmeric can also aid in weight loss and help maintain skin's healthy glow.

VIII. Watercress

The first time I tried watercress, it was as a garnish for steak. It has a slightly spicy taste that pairs perfectly with grilled steak, cutting through the grease. It contains vitamins A, C, B, calcium, iron, and chlorophyll. It can promote blood circulation and has a diuretic effect, which can help alleviate the heavy feeling of summer. When you have mouth ulcers or blisters, you can eat more watercress. Chewing a few leaves after eating strongly flavored foods can also freshen your breath!

IX. Burdock

The burdock we eat daily is actually the root of the plant. In fact, burdock has a wide range of uses, and its seeds are just as effective as the root. Burdock can remove toxins from the body, promote sweating, help with urination, and enhance liver function. Its seeds are also a great antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herb.