Drinking for a Healthier Bladder

It often feels like cutting down on fluid intake will help relieve symptoms of an overactive bladder, but this is not the case. Don’t cut back on your fluids. A reduced intake will most likely make your urine more concentrated, which can lead to worsened symptoms. When we don’t drink enough fluids, our bladder gets used to holding smaller amounts of fluid, which can result in it becoming oversensitive.

For optimal bladder health, one should aim to consume 1.5 to 2 litres of fluids a day, which is roughly the equivalent of 6 to 10 average-sized mugs.

Drinks that irritate the Bladder

Certain drinks, such as coffee, tea, and fizzy drinks, even those labelled as light or diet options, can irritate the bladder. These drinks often contain artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame or saccharine, which are known to cause irritation. Additionally, alcoholic drinks and acidic fruits can also contribute to bladder irritation, so it’s recommended to consume these in moderation.

To support a healthier bladder, it's helpful to choose drinks that don't irritate the bladder. Here’s a comparison of drinks that may irritate versus those that don’t:

• Caffeinated beverages like tea, coffee, and energy drinks should be limited. Instead, opt for decaffeinated or herbal teas.
• While fizzy drinks can irritate, water remains the best option for hydration.
• Alcohol and acidic beverages can also cause irritation. Fresh non-acidic drinks are a better alternative.

By making simple changes to your drink choices, you can promote a healthier bladder and reduce irritation. Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice regarding bladder health.

Certain drinks like coffee, tea, fizzy drinks even the light or diet ones with artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame or saccharine can irritate the bladder. Alcoholic drinks and acidic fruits can also result in irritating the bladder, so it is recommended that they are consumed in moderation.  

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Bladder and bowel incontinence may be caused by conditions which can be treated medically. Please consult your physician for medical advice and guidance.