Diet for a Healthy Bladder: Care Instructions
Your Care Instructions
You can help your bladder stay healthy. Drink lots of water and eat a variety of foods. This may help prevent urinary tract infections and other bladder problems.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Drink plenty of water or other drinks that do not have alcohol. This will help flush bacteria from your bladder. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
- Limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol can irritate the bladder. For some people, caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and cola drinks) also can irritate the bladder.
- You may find there are certain foods which make your symptoms worse or irritate your bladder lining, causing bladder muscle contractions and a feeling of urgency (a strong urge to empty your bladder) or pain. To learn if a food or drink irritates your bladder, stop eating or drinking it for a few days. This will help you learn if that food or drink changes your symptoms.
- Avoid constipation. This can help some people who have a problem with an urgent need to urinate a lot.
- Include fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are higher in fibre.
- Get at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
- Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when having your bowel movement.
Adaptation Date: 6/13/2024
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
