Urinary incontinence, characterized by the involuntary loss of urine, is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages (1). Whether the cause is age-related weakening of the pelvic muscles, a urinary tract infection, or another underlying medical issue, managing symptoms is crucial for enhancing daily life. While many factors contribute to incontinence, including lifestyle, physical health, and age, the role of beverages in either alleviating or exacerbating symptoms is often underestimated. Fluid intake is a key consideration in this regard, as some drinks can either contribute to or alleviate incontinence-related challenges.

According to NHS guidelines, maintaining a daily fluid intake of at least 6 to 8 cups (equivalent to approximately 1.2 liters) is crucial for overall health (2). But when it comes to managing urinary incontinence, choosing the right drinks becomes essential. Discover the beverages that are gentle on the bladder, as well as those to avoid for optimal bladder health.

Drinks for a Healthy Bladder

Addressing urinary incontinence symptoms involves more than just using the right pads or staying active—it extends to your beverage choices. Surprisingly, what you drink can significantly impact incontinence symptoms, potentially leading to bladder irritation and aggravated issues. Selecting liquids that benefit rather than harm your bladder is paramount.

Benefits of Water in Managing Urinary Incontinence

Water stands out as a top-notch choice. Its benefits extend beyond mere hydration and include:

• Flushing bacteria from the bladder
• Supporting digestion
• Preventing constipation
• Regulating body temperature
• Protecting vital organs and tissues

Hydration is particularly vital in managing urinary incontinence (3). Proper water consumption helps maintain balanced urine concentration, reducing the risk of bladder irritation, frequent urges, and leakages. If plain water isn’t to your liking, consider enhancing it with natural flavors like slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber to make staying hydrated more enjoyable.

Drinks that Help With Urinary Incontinence

Diluted Fruit Juices:

Certain diluted fruit juices can provide antioxidants and help balance bacteria levels in the bladder. Moderation is key, and while some fruit juices can be beneficial, overconsumption, especially of acidic variants, can be counterproductive.

Decaffeinated Tea and Coffee:

Decaffeinated versions of tea and coffee are less likely to increase the frequency and urgency of urination. Caffeine, a diuretic (4), can exacerbate incontinence symptoms, making decaffeinated options a more suitable choice.

Herbal Tea:

Certain herbal teas can clear the bladder of irritants, promoting a healthy bladder. Being naturally caffeine-free, herbal teas like mint, chamomile, and lavender may not irritate the bladder (5).

Green Tea:

Studies suggest green tea can have favorable effects on the bladder, and its supplements may reduce inflammation of the urinary tract. Moderation is advised due to its caffeine content, but its potential anti-inflammatory properties make it a promising option.

Drinks to Avoid with Urinary Incontinence

Understanding what to avoid is as crucial as identifying bladder-friendly drinks. Certain beverages can heighten the urgency and frequency of urination, potentially worsening incontinence symptoms (5).

Alcohol:

Acts as both a diuretic and an irritant to the bladder, increasing the urge to urinate and promoting dehydration. Best avoided altogether due to its negative impact on bladder function.

Carbonated Drinks:

The dissolved carbon dioxide in carbonated drinks can increase the urge to urinate and irritate the bladder. Limiting or eliminating carbonated drinks from the diet is advisable.

Caffeinated Drinks:

Caffeine, found in tea, coffee, sodas, and energy drinks, can lead to increased urination and confusion in the brain-bladder connection. Limiting caffeine intake is crucial for managing incontinence effectively.

Milk:

Dairy, including milk, can trigger or worsen symptoms of urinary incontinence, especially for those with lactose sensitivities. Experimenting with dairy-free alternatives like soy or almond milk is recommended.

Hot Chocolate:

Despite being caffeine-containing, hot chocolate’s acidity can irritate the bladder, leading to discomfort and increased urgency to urinate. Occasional enjoyment is advised, but moderation is key.

Foods to Avoid for Urinary Incontinence

While beverages play a crucial role, dietary choices, including certain foods, can also impact incontinence symptoms. Steering clear of trigger foods is essential for a holistic approach to managing this condition.

Chocolates, citrus fruits, onions, tomatoes, honey and spicy foods can irritate the bladder and worsen incontinence symptoms. Monitoring food intake and reducing the consumption of these items can contribute to better symptom management.

In conclusion, making beneficial changes to both beverage choices and dietary habits is a proactive step toward managing incontinence. From prioritizing bladder-friendly drinks to avoiding substances that can exacerbate symptoms, individuals dealing with incontinence can enhance their overall well-being. Small adjustments to daily routines, such as opting for decaffeinated alternatives and incorporating herbal teas, can yield significant improvements over time.

Understanding the intricate relationship between fluid intake, beverage choices, and incontinence is pivotal for individuals seeking effective strategies for symptom management. While medical consultation is essential for personalized advice, adopting a bladder-friendly approach to hydration and dietary choices can significantly contribute to an improved quality of life for those dealing with incontinence.

References:

1. Management of urinary incontinence
   
   Nightingale G. Management of urinary incontinence. Post Reprod Health. 2020 Jun;26(2):63-70. doi: 10.1177/2053369120927112. PMID: 32627702.




2. Water, Drinks and Hydration
   
   https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/water-drinks-nutrition/




3. Fluid intake and urinary incontinence in older community-dwelling women
   
   Dowd TT, Campbell JM, Jones JA. Fluid intake and urinary incontinence in older community-dwelling women. J Community Health Nurs. 1996;13(3):179-86. doi: 10.1207/s15327655jchn1303_5. PMID: 8916607.




4. Marx B, Scuvée É, Scuvée-Moreau J, Seutin V, Jouret F. Mécanismes de l’effet diurétique de la caféine [Mechanisms of caffeine-induced diuresis]. Med Sci (Paris). 2016 May;32(5):485-90. French. doi: 10.1051/medsci/20163205015. Epub 2016 May 25. PMID: 27225921.




5. Usage of complementary and alternative medicine in women with urinary incontinence at a hospital in Turkey
   
   Gökşin İ, Duru Aşiret G, Kütmeç Yılmaz C. Usage of complementary and alternative medicine in women with urinary incontinence at a hospital in Turkey. Integr Med Res. 2020 Jun;9(2):100403. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100403. Epub 2020 Mar 10. PMID: 32322485; PMCID: PMC7160565.




6. Lifestyle interventions for the treatment of urinary incontinence in adults
   
   Imamura M, Williams K, Wells M, McGrother C. Lifestyle interventions for the treatment of urinary incontinence in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Dec 2;2015(12):CD003505. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003505.pub5. PMID: 26630349; PMCID: PMC8612696.

Source-Medindia