UI is a common condition that affects individuals, especially women, and can significantly impact quality of life, says Dr Purvi Khatari, a gynaecologist at Dr Purvi Khatri Gynecology and Fertility Clinic in Surat (India).
According to Dr. Purvi Khatari, one of the methods that can be applied immediately to help your bladder become healthier is to create appropriate eating habits, avoiding foods that are not good for bladder health.
Here are foods and drinks to avoid to protect bladder health:
Caffeine (coffee, tea, caffeinated soft drinks)
Caffeine is a stimulant that can irritate your bladder, increasing the frequency of urination and even causing a feeling of urgency and difficulty controlling it. If you have a sensitive bladder, you should limit or completely avoid foods and drinks that contain caffeine.
Alcohol
Alcohol can irritate and reduce bladder control, leading to incontinence and an increased risk of urinary tract infections. Alcohol also has a diuretic effect, increasing the frequency of urination.
Sour foods (oranges, lemons, pineapples)
Acidic foods such as oranges, lemons, pineapples, or other citrus fruits can increase the acidity of your urine, irritate your bladder, and make cystitis worse.
Strong spices and spicy foods (chili, pepper)
Strong spices, especially chili and pepper, can irritate the bladder lining, leading to urinary urgency or burning.
Sugar and sugar-containing products
Foods and drinks that are high in sugar or syrup (such as sweet drinks, cakes, and candy) can cause bladder inflammation and increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
Foods high in fat
Processed foods, fast foods, and foods high in saturated fats can affect bladder health, increasing the risk of inflammation or infection.
Milk and dairy products (especially whole milk)
Some people may experience bladder irritation when consuming milk or dairy products, especially whole milk. This can be a problem if you have a sensitive bladder.
Carbonated soft drink
Carbonated soft drinks or sodas can irritate the bladder lining and increase urinary frequency.
Foods containing caffeine or other stimulants
Certain foods or drinks, such as chocolate, contain caffeine or similar compounds, which can irritate the bladder.
