The Healthy Bladder Diet

People tend to avoid talking about bladder issues even when they are bothered by symptoms for years. However, issues like urinary incontinence, bladder infections and urinary tract infections are common and may be helped with simple lifestyle changes. One way to improve bladder health is to modify your diet. Certain foods and liquids can irritate conditions and should be avoided while other foods could help.

Read the tips below, consult with your physician and test them out to improve your bladder health.

Avoid

Certain beverages and foods can irritate our bladders. Try cutting out potential irritants for a week and then adding one back into your diet every two or so days. Take note of any bladder changes when you reintroduce a food or drink back into your diet.

Beverages to avoid or limit:

- Alcohol

- Caffeine (coffee, tea, soda)

- Carbonated beverages

Foods to avoid or limit:

- Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, grapefruits)

- Spicy foods

- Tomato-based foods

- Chocolate

Hydrate
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but is a large component in bladder and urinary tract health.  Water is best for bladder health and should be at least half of the liquid you consume. Talk with your physician about how much water you should be consuming per day. He/she can recommend not only amounts, but customize your water schedule based on your condition. 

You can also increase water intake by eating certain foods. Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe and peaches all have high water content.

Remember that adding citrus fruits, artificial flavors or carbonation to water could counteract some of the benefits.

Get Fiber
Constipation is always aggravating and can be even worse for those with bladder issues. Straining during bowel movements can put extra stress on the pelvic floor and cause damage. Prevent constipation naturally by getting enough fiber in your diet.

Foods with high amounts of fiber:

• Fresh vegetables (green peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts)
• Beans
• Lentils
• Fruits (raspberries, pears, apples)
• Quinoa
• Oatmeal
• Nuts (almonds, pistachios, pecans)
• Whole wheat pasta

Having to cut out your favorite Thai dish or black tea may seem drastic, but remember that you may only need to cut out a few things or limit amounts. Take time to test what irritates your symptoms and discuss issues with your physician. Keep track of your bladder habits and discuss options for improving the health of your bladder.

To schedule an appointment with a Utica Park Clinic primary care provider, call 918-579-DOCS (3627) or request an appointment online by visiting uticaparkclinic.com/contact-us.