By Lisa D. Ellis
You know that eating well can be good for your health. But did you realize that the right foods and drinks can help you have a healthy bladder, too? Here you’ll get important tips on what foods to enjoy—and what foods to avoid—for optimal bladder health.
Eat plenty of:
Fruits, vegetables, and other fiber-packed foods. These foods can benefit your bladder health on many levels. First, they can help you to lose weight, which is important since if you are overweight, your abdominal muscles can press on your bladder. Second, these foods can also help to reduce constipation, which can sometimes be related to bladder issues.
Whole grain foods such as breads, pasta, rice, and potatoes. When your digestion is functioning at its best, it will be easier to maintain your optimum weight, or lose excess pounds, which can help improve your bladder issues. In addition, grains contain vitamin B, which helps keep the nerves in your pelvic area healthy. For the best results, select whole grains in their natural state rather than those that have been processed.
Protein-rich foods. Foods that are packed with protein are great for the bladder. These include meats, chicken, fish, and some nuts (including almonds, pine nuts, and cashews). The benefit comes from the fact that proteins support your pelvic muscles and also play a role in regulating your body’s hormones. Both things can really help maintain optimal bladder health.
Steer clear of:
Caffeinated foods and drinks. Caffeine is a stimulant that speeds up your body and can prompt your bladder into overdrive. In addition, it acts as a diuretic, which causes you to actually produce more urine. This means that when you drink caffeinated coffee, tea and sodas, or indulge in chocolate sweets, you may find yourself searching for a bathroom more often than you bargained for, and this can also cause you to feel dehydrated. That’s why the experts recommend steering clear of anything containing caffeine. If you can’t get by without your mug of morning coffee, be sure to stick to caffeine-free drinks for the rest of the day.
Remember, when you eat well, you strengthen your immune system and keep it functioning at its best. This is not only essential to your overall well being, but is also an important step in helping to keep your bladder healthy. So, be good to your body by choosing your food wisely. Bon appétit!
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