People suffering from urinary incontinence or overactive bladder syndrome experience sudden and frequent urges to urinate. If their condition is advanced, they may also experience some leakage at times, which can largely interfere with their daily activities. However, certain foods can be added and avoided in their everyday meals to minimize or ease the symptoms of bladder-related disorders. The following are some foods to add and avoid in one’s meal plans.

Foods to eat:

Whole grains
Whole grains such as quinoa, rice, and oats are rich in fibers that help in controlling an overactive bladder. Fiber-rich foods, such as brown bread, wheat pasta, cereal, or even brown rice, are beneficial for the urinary bladder and gut health. Some people who suffer from constipation, in addition to an overactive bladder, must increase their fiber intake.

Lean proteins
Having foods that are rich in lean protein strengthens the muscles that line the urinary bladder and thus, also helps with bladder control over it. Moreover, these foods are rich in fiber content, which is beneficial for bladder health. These foods may include meats like low-fat beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, or eggs. There are also plant-based sources of protein such as beans, soy, and oats that can be added to meals.

Fruits and vegetables
Colorful fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals. The antioxidants present in them help the body rejuvenate and repair against external antigens. Consuming fruits, like apples, bananas, pears, and vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, and kale, can protect the body from a majority of illnesses. Such fruits and veggies are rich in fiber, which is an added benefit of consuming fruits and vegetables since they protect the bladder and help with bladder.

Foods to avoid:

Citrus fruits
Although fruits are healthy, having fruits like oranges, limes, and tangerines can irritate the inner linings of the urinary bladder as they are highly acidic. As a result, such people may experience incontinence. Instead, it is better to opt for foods like bananas, avocadoes, and apples.

Carbonated drinks
Carbonated drinks are bad for the body for a variety of reasons. The excessive amount of processed sugar and other additives in such drinks can irritate the digestive system and cause harm to the overall health. Moreover, such beverages are usually caffeinated, which dehydrates the body and results in concentrated urine. Due to this, some experience inflammation and incontinence.

Peppers
Peppers or spicy food must be avoided when experiencing bladder-related issues because the capsaicin in such foods may irritate the bladder. So, it is best to avoid adding any peppers or chili flakes to your foods.

In addition to making food-related changes, one can also use medications to manage bladder-related disorders.

MYRBETRIQ
MYRBETRIQ is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urgency, frequency, and leakage. The medication comes in the form of an oral tablet and is usually taken once each day.

Tolterodine
It is an FDA-approved prescription medication that can treat OAB with symptoms of leaks, sudden urges to go to the bathroom, and going too often.

Trospium
This oral medicine works by relaxing the bladder muscles to prevent urgent, frequent, or uncontrolled urination.