Have you ever experienced the discomfort of a urinary tract infection (UTI), the inconvenience of bladder leaks, or the persistent need to use the restroom? Surprisingly, your dietary choices may be contributing to the worsening of your incontinence problems. Physicians suggest that individuals with sensitive bladders may notice that their symptoms are heightened as a result of their diet.
Related: Take Care of Urinary Incontinence Naturally with This Guide
Though not often openly discussed, bladder health problems are quite prevalent. In particular, incontinence, termed 'leaky bladder,' is a widespread issue characterized by involuntary urine leakage. Furthermore, frequent urination, especially when it occurs during the night or during sleep, is a commonly reported concern among many people.
Interstitial Cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic disorder characterized by prolonged discomfort and pain in the bladder region, frequently accompanied by pelvic irritation. People affected by this condition also commonly feel the need to urinate frequently and urgently.
For some individuals, managing incontinence or other bladder-related issues may be as simple as adjusting their diet and removing potential bladder irritants. But even if your bladder is healthy, understanding which foods and drinks can irritate it is essential for maintaining optimal bladder health. So, what items should you avoid?
We all know the feeling: facing a long workday ahead can be a daunting task, and for many, it's coffee that jumpstarts their morning. But if you're concerned about the health of your bladder, it might be wise to moderate your caffeine intake. As experts have pointed out, caffeine functions as a diuretic, leading to increased urine production. Moreover, it intensifies the urge to urinate, making it difficult to maintain control over your bladder and potentially causing leaks. The acidity found in coffee can also worsen symptoms linked to caffeine consumption.
The good news is that you don't have to give up coffee entirely, especially if it's an essential part of your daily routine. Experts suggest that enjoying two cups of coffee or less per day is the "ideal" amount and should maintain the health of your bladder.
Just like coffee, citrus fruits can lead to increased urinary frequency because of their acidic properties, found in fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Whether consumed as whole fruits or in juice form, the citric acid in these fruits can irritate the bladder lining, potentially aggravating painful urinary symptoms. Medical advice suggests refraining from citrus fruit consumption, especially when experiencing active UTI symptoms, as it may exacerbate your discomfort.
Tomatoes and tomato-based products, including ketchup and pasta sauce, are known to be highly acidic and can significantly worsen bladder-related issues and incontinence symptoms. Those who find it difficult to resist the allure of tomatoes are advised to select fresh ones rather than their cooked counterparts. It's important to note that the acidity of tomatoes increases as they undergo extended cooking. This recommendation therefore suggests reducing your intake of dishes based on tomato sauce, such as pizza and spaghetti Bolognese.
If you're a fan of savoring a fiery hot curry or generously drizzling hot sauce on your dishes, here's something to keep in mind: spicy foods have the potential to agitate the bladder lining and worsen symptoms. It's advisable to exercise restraint when indulging in chili-laden meals, especially if you're experiencing incontinence. Moreover, if you happen to have interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome, it might be wise to completely avoid spicy foods, as they could trigger your symptoms.
Related: WARNING! These Bathroom Habits Can Lead to Urinary Issues
Craving the taste of cured meats or hot dogs? Urologists caution against frequent consumption of processed meats, including smoked ham and deli cuts. These products typically contain additives aimed at preserving their shelf life and enhancing their flavor. However, these additives may not be kind to your bladder. Many of these meats contain nitrates, which are a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen compounds. Unfortunately, health experts have identified these chemicals as a recognized source of carcinogenic byproducts known to contribute to cancer development. In particular, nitrites added to red meat have been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
Because soda contains a trio of irritants, including sugar, caffeine, and carbonation, it should be consumed with caution. Caffeine, present in soda as a natural diuretic, can lead to dehydration and concentrated urine. Moreover, the sugar content in soda can raise urine acidity, heightening the risk of bladder infections. Additionally, the carbonation process, involving carbon dioxide, can contribute to bladder irritation and subsequent urinary issues.
Urinary incontinence is further aggravated by the consumption of alcohol. Rigorous clinical studies have consistently demonstrated alcohol's stimulant properties, which can substantially intensify the sensation of urgency. People who consume one or more alcoholic beverages also often experience increased urination frequency, because of alcohol's diuretic properties. The amount of alcohol you consume can even compromise your ability to recognize urges, thereby elevating the likelihood of accidents or leaks. It is advisable to either limit your alcohol intake or eliminate it altogether.
Studies indicate that certain artificial sweeteners, including sodium saccharine, acesulfame K, and aspartame, can worsen urinary incontinence by adversely affecting bladder function. Avoid these sweeteners to protect your bladder.
Related: Relieve Common Urinary Symptoms Without Medication
Urinary incontinence can be exacerbated by the lactose content in dairy, a challenge many people face. Those with overactive bladder syndrome often find that dairy products, such as milk and cheese, are particularly troublesome. To manage and alleviate symptoms of incontinence, it may prove beneficial to contemplate a dairy-free diet while curtailing your intake of lactose-rich foods.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, WebMD, Byram Healthcare, Mayo Clinic Health System, CNN.com, Everyday Health
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