Foods that Stop Water Retention - Real Healthy - Cooking

3 Foods That Beat the Bloat

No Comments | Written on May 23, 2012 at 11:00 am, by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN

Salty meals—or even just hormonal fluctuations—can cause your body to hold onto more water. Although carrying around an extra pound or two of ”water weight” won’t hurt you, it sure can make your jeans feel tight. Fortunately, it’s a lot easier to shed water than fat. And they’re no need to resort to pills or teas, either. Instead, head for the farmer’s market and pick up asparagus, parsley, and dandelion greens. These seasonal vegetables all have gentle diuretic effects, helping your body release excess fluids. And unlike chemical diuretics, which can deplete potassium, these vegetables are a good source of potassium and other nutrients. Think of them as spring cleaning for your body!

Parsley is most often used as a garnish, adding fresh, peppery flavor and a dash of vibrant color to dishes. But there’s no need to limit yourself to just a sprinkle. In middle-eastern countries, a big bowl of fresh parsley sprigs is often served as an accompaniment. Chew a few sprigs after a meal to naturally freshen your breath.

Recipes to try:
• Parsley Salad with Pine Nuts and Lemon Tahini Dressing

• Farfalle with Zucchini and Parsley-Almond Pesto

Dandelion greens are bitter greens, similar to arugula or endive. While I once looked out the window in the Spring and saw a yard full of weeds, I now see nothing but gourmet salad greens! If you decide to harvest your own dandelion greens, look for young leaves, which are more tender, and be sure to avoid any areas that might have been sprayed with weed-killer.

Recipes to try:
• Dandelion Salad with Goat Cheese and Tomato Dressing

• Warm Dandelion Greens with Garlic Dressing

Asparagus is widely-loved but also notorious for giving urine a strong characteristic smell. This is due to compounds in asparagus called thiols. A small percentage of the population produce enzymes that break these thiols down before they exit the body. The rest of us have to put up with this harmless and temporary after-effect!

Recipes to try:
• Sesame Asparagus

• Lemony Asparagus with New Potatoes