Diuretic supplements (herbal water pills)

Tier 4 — risky / avoid · Electrolyte depletion · Dehydration · Kidney damage

Herbal diuretic supplements marketed for "water weight" loss and "detox" containing dandelion, horsetail, uva ursi, or juniper. While individually mild, concentrated formulas can cause dangerous potassium depletion, dehydration, and kidney injury — especially combined with prescription diuretics or in hot weather. The weight lost is water, not fat, and returns immediately. Some products contain undeclared pharmaceutical diuretics.

Dose: AVOID concentrated herbal diuretic formulas; individual herbs in food amounts are safe; watch for hidden pharmaceutical diuretics