You probably don’t think much about your bladder. Until something goes wrong. Bladder issues affect millions of people, with the most common problem being incontinence, which means losing bladder control. This can vary from a slight loss of urine after sneezing, coughing, or laughing, to the complete inability to control urination.
Incontinence, also known as involuntary urination, affects 25 million adult Americans and 200 million people worldwide – 75%–80% of those are women.
Urinary incontinence isn’t a condition. It’s a symptom of a condition called overactive bladder. This condition is also called having an “irritable” or “sensitive” bladder.
When you’re dealing with these issues, the last thing you want to do is irritate your bladder, so it’s important to pay attention to the foods you eat. Eating to help your bladder isn’t going to cure it of any problems, but it can make a difference in controlling symptoms.
Avoid These Foods if You Have a Sensitive Bladder
In general, if you have bladder problems of any kind, it’s best to avoid:
Coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated
Caffeinated tea
Carbonated beverages
Alcohol
Grapefruit, lemon, orange, and pineapple
Cranberry*, grapefruit, orange, and pineapple juice
Tomato products
Hot peppers
Spicy foods – including Mexican, Thai and Indian
Chili
Horseradish
Vinegar
MSG
Artificial sweeteners such as NutraSweet, Sweet ‘N Low, Equal, and Saccharin
And if you smoke, stop. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
You may have heard that cranberry juice is good for your bladder, however, studies have concluded that cranberry juice isn’t effective, but cranberry capsules are. Cranberry capsules have been shown to lower the risk of urinary tract infections by 50%.
But what foods should you eat to soothe your bladder and avoid problems?
12 Bladder-Friendly Foods
These foods won’t cure your bladder problems, but they can help keep your bladder soothed and irritation-free.
Berries. Berries are a great source of a compound known as flavanol, which has been shown to help fight bacterial infection. You can eat them fresh by themselves, in your morning cereal, or you can add frozen berries to a smoothie.
Yogurt. Eating yogurt loaded with probiotics can help build up gut bacteria that’s capable of helping us break down our food in a more efficient manner for a more effective digestive system. You should also be aware that probiotics in yogurt could help your urinary system, too, by helping fight urinary tract infections
Garlic. Garlic is an effective way to keep kidney infections and bladder cancer away. Research shows garlic extract can help prevent the development and growth of cancer cells, particularly in the bladder and kidneys. Try a garlic supplement or add fresh or dried garlic to your meals. But speak with your doctor first: garlic supplements can interact with your medication.
Pears. Pears are a good source of fiber, and contain malic acid, a precursor of citrate, and have antioxidant activity as well. A diet supplemented with pears could inhibit urinary tract stones.
Bananas. Bananas are a high-fiber food that can be good for urinary tract health. The fiber encourages regular bowel movements and relieves pressure on urine flow.
Winter Squash. These squashes, which include acorn, butternut, and spaghetti varieties, are a good source of beta-carotene and other carotenoids which may help prevent bladder cancer.
Potatoes. In addition to being non-irritating to the bladder, potatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium.
Lean proteins. Lean proteins like low-fat beef, pork, chicken, turkey and fish, when baked, steamed or broiled probably won’t bother your bladder.
Whole grains. Fiber rich quinoa, rice and oats are great sources of fiber and antioxidants like Vitamin E.
Breads. Breads are bladder-friendly. Choose whole grain, fiber-rich varieties.
Nuts. Nuts are rich in protein and fiber. But some can irritate the bladder, so stick with almonds, cashews, pine nuts and sunflower seeds, and avoid any heavily-salted nuts.
Eggs. Eggs are a great source of protein, and a study has shown that a high egg intake can reduce the risk of bladder cancer.
Don’t Suffer with Bladder Problems. Norman Urology Can Help.
Even when you eat the right foods, bladder problems can occur. Whether you’re suffering from incontinence or a suspected urinary tract infection, or just want more advice to keep your bladder healthy, Norman Urology has the answers and the most current treatments. And you can count on superior, specialized care from experienced, compassionate professionals.
Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment. We can’t wait to meet you!