While bed-wetting can appear embarrassing, it is important to know that in adults, it is often as a result of an underlying condition that should be checked by a doctor. For others however, a few lifestyle adjustments can help control the frequent urge to urinate. Diet, for one, is known to affect bladder health and is a starting point when it comes to best practices.
Foods to avoid include:
- Spicy foods: These irritate the bladder lining and increase the urge to urinate. They include hot pepper and chili. They also are known to increase bowel movement.
- Alcohol - The consumption of alcohol reduces control over natural signals that let you know when bladder is full and needs to be emptied. One is also more likely to need to urinate and less likely to know when they actually need to.
- Caffeine - Foods/drinks that have caffeine create a stronger urge and also prompts the body to get rid of fluids. They include tea, coffee, carbonated drinks, chocolate and energy drinks, chocolate. One should completely avoid caffeinated drinks and foods, especially just before bed.
- Others foods to steer from are dairy products- lactose may cause looser stool leading to bowel incontinence, processed foods, and certain medications such as heart medications, muscle relaxants and blood pressure reducers, which can exacerbate incontinence issues by causing an overload of fluid in the bladder.
It is important to replace the bladder irritants with foods that calm the lining of the bladder. A more natural diet that helps incorporates more natural vitamins and antioxidants. These foods include:
- Fiber-rich foods - Incontinence can arise from constipation where a full colon exerts pressure on the bladder. Foods such as whole grain cereals, raw vegetables and beans are rich in fiber and aid in relieving constipation.
- Proteins - These are known to be more gentle on the bladder. They include fish and meat.
- Magnesium rich foods such as bananas, potatoes, nuts, avocados, black beans, and dark leafy greens reduce bladder spasms.
- Bladder-neutral spices. In place of the offensive spices, people with urinary incontinences can use rosemary, dill, thyme or garlic in their foods.
Overall, drinking a lot of water can cause an overactive bladder and result in leaks. It is vital to take just enough, as taking too little also can cause dehydration. People with bladder issues should also avoid habits such as smoking which are not good for the health of the bladder.